In the US, what is the difference between a freeze warning and a freeze watch?

TriviaFan22

You may be referring to a freeze warning and a hard freeze warning. Freeze warning ~ "Widespread temperatures at or below 32 °F (0 °C) during the growing season. A freeze may occur with or without frost." Hard freeze warning ~ "Widespread temperatures at or below 28 °F (?2 °C) during the growing season. A hard freeze may occur with or without frost." A winter storm watch ~ "Hazardous winter weather conditions including significant accumulations of snow and/or freezing rain and/or sleet are possible generally within 48 hours." And a winter storm warning on the other hand ~ "Hazardous winter weather conditions that pose a threat to life and/or property are occurring, imminent, or highly likely. The generic term, winter storm warning, is used for a combination of two or more of the following winter weather events; heavy snow, freezing rain, sleet, and strong winds." en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Severe_weather_terminology_(United_States) Feb 18 13, 1:29 AM

mehaul

The usual difference in the terms is the a "Watch" means that the type of weather could occur in 24 hours; while a "Warning" means that the type of weather is already happening in the area and may move into the warned area soon. Watches and Warnings are used for Tornadoes, hurricanes, winterstorms, floods. ice storms, temperatures, etc. From the same link as cites above http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Severe_weather_terminology_(United_States) "Watch - A watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather or hydrologic event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location, or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so those who need to set their plans in motion can do so. A watch means that hazardous weather is possible. People should have a plan of action in case a storm threatens and they should listen for later information and possible warnings especially when planning travel or outdoor activities. NWS may activate weather spotters in areas affected by watches to help them better track and analyze the event.[40] Warning - A warning is issued when a hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, imminent, or likely. A warning means weather conditions pose a threat to life or property. People in the path of the storm need to take protective action. NWS may activate weather spotters in areas affected by warnings to help them better track and analyze the event.[41]" So, a freeze watch would warn growers and other necessary folk that temperatures below 32F may happen within 24 hours while a freeze warning means that somewhere close the temperatures are already noted to be below 32F. Feb 18 13, 2:21 PM