Winter Hazard Simplification

The NWS is striving to support a Weather-Ready Nation by ensuring you are aware of and prepared for the variety of weather- and water-based hazards. One factor in supporting this awareness and preparedness is to make sure our messaging is as clear and focused as possible.

Based on initial feedback from core partners and the public, and with support from social and behavioral scientists, the NWS is implementing changes to more effectively communicate our hazard messages. To begin this process, modifications will be made to winter weather products. Here are the winter adjustments taking place this Fall:

Product Consolidation

Consolidate Lake Effect Snow Advisory and Freezing Rain Advisory into Winter Weather Advisory
Consolidate Lake Effect Snow Watch and Blizzard Watch into Winter Storm Watch
Consolidate Lake Effect Snow Warning into Winter Storm Warning

Product Reformatting

Reformat all winter products into a “What, Where, When, Additional Details, and Precautionary/Preparedness Actions” format

While the five consolidated products noted above will no longer be issued, the service will still be provided. Instead of issuing products specifically catered to lake effect snow, freezing rain, and blizzards (only in the case of watches for blizzards), the information will be provided in the "what" section of existing products.

Reformatting will bring a more clear and organized look and feel to the products. Critical decision-making details will be more readily available and easier to find with the new format mentioned above.