NWR Specific Area Message Encoding

(NWR-SAME) Codes

The complete list of EAS event codes broadcast over NWR (also known as NWR-SAME Codes) is shown below. NWR and the EAS use identical digital protocols. NWS uses Weather Radio as its primary means to activate EAS. The list of event codes for your area is usually listed in your state or local EAS plan.

All of the codes below are operational. Older SAME-enable receivers may display some of the more recently-approved codes as "unknown" codes, but they will play the audio. Check your receiver's manual or the manufacturer's website for more information. You may want to consider buying a newer model.

Naming Convention for EAS Event Codes

The FCC established naming conventions for EAS event codes. In most cases, and for all future codes to be approved, the third letter of all hazardous state and local event codes is limited to one of four letters:

• W for Warnings
• A for Watches
• E for Emergencies
• S for Statements

Note: The existing event codes for Tornado Warning (TOR), Severe Thunderstorm Warning (SVR) and Evacuation Immediate (EVI) will not be changed to conform to this naming convention.

• A Warning is an event that alone poses a significant threat to public safety and/or property, probability of occurrence and location is high, and the onset time is relatively short.
• A Watch meets the classification of a warning, but either the onset time, probability of occurrence, or location is uncertain.
• An Emergency is an event that, by itself, would not kill or injure or do property damage, but indirectly may cause other things to happen that result in a hazard. For example, a major power or telephone loss in a large city alone is not a direct hazard, but disruption to other critical services could create a variety of conditions that could directly threaten public safety.
• A Statement is a message contaning follow up information to a warning, watch, or emergency.

¹ These are state and local codes used by the NWS. It is optional for broadcasters to activate EAS for these events.

² Snow Squall Warnings are not conveyed to the EAS.