Identify Weather Threats High Wind

News Headlines

A Destructive Severe Thunderstorm created substantial wind damage across northernmost Maryland Saturday night April 19, 2025.

Exceptional Winds

Biggest takeaway:
Extremely windy days (to the point of damage) are not common, but happen. Have a plan.

Warning/Trigger for Plan:
NWS High Wind Warning (greater threat; alerted on NOAA Weather Radio) –and-
NWS Wind Advisory (some threat; not alerted on NOAA Weather Radio)

Advance Notice/Time to Activate & Accomplish Your Planned Response:
Generally 6-18 hours. May be preceded by a High Wind Watch as many as 2 days in advance.

Frequency:
2-5 Wind Advisories is an annual average.
0-1 High Wind Warnings for widespread damaging wind gusts of 60 mph or higher.

How Accurate Warnings?
Widespread winds of this nature are typically well forecast and warned for.

The NWS issues High Wind Warnings for exceptionally windy days where the winds (not storm related, but the general winds) are expected to cause damage (>60 mph).
Have a plan to:
- Secure your location from damaging wind gusts.
- Shelter in a suitable structure
- Note that large branches and trees are at risk for coming down. Is that a threat in your location? How do you keep people out of harm’s way?