Tropical weather definitions, terms

HURRICANE-RELATED TERMS

Tropical depression: An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sus-tained winds of 38 mph (33 knots) or less. Sustained winds are defined as one-minute average wind measured at about 33 feet (10 meters) above the surface.

Tropical storm: An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39-73 mph (34-63 knots).

Hurricane: An intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher.

Storm surge: A dome of water pushed onshore by hurricane and tropical storm winds. Storm surges can reach 25 feet high and be 50-1,000 miles wide.

Storm tide: A combination of storm surge and the normal tide (i.e., a 15-foot storm surge combined with a 2-foot normal high tide over the mean sea level created a 17-foot storm tide).

Hurricane/tropical storm watch: Hurricane/tropical storm conditions are possible in the specified area, usually within 36 hours. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.

Hurricane/tropical storm warning: Hurricane/tropical storm conditions are expected in the specified area, usually within 24 hours.

Short term watches and warnings: These warnings provide detailed information about specific hurricane threats, such as flash floods and tornadoes.