Winter weather advisory
A Winter Weather Advisory means snow, sleet, ice, or blowing snow is expected, but amounts will stay below warning criteria. The National Weather Service office that covers Baltimore and Washington issues one for 2 to 4 inches of snow, 1 inch in the metro during rush hour, or any freezing rain. Local offices issue the advisory to tell you to be aware and expect slower travel.
Right now0Winter weather advisories in effectas of Snow totals by state, measured
Advisory vs warning vs watch
| Product | Meaning | Certainty | Typical amount (example) | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advisory | Weather is expected, but below warning level | Expected | 2 to 4 inches of snow in Baltimore/Washington | Be aware, allow extra time |
| Warning | Weather above the local warning threshold, such as 5 inches of snow in Baltimore/Washington, expected or occurring and may threaten life or property | Expected | Above local advisory thresholds | Take action now |
| Watch | Conditions are possible, not certain | Possible, 24 to 48 hours out | No specific amount yet | Be prepared |
What the advisory covers now
- Snow at advisory amounts
- Blowing snow at advisory amounts
- Sleet at advisory amounts
- Freezing rain at advisory amounts
- Any combination of these
- Since October 1, 2017, this product has included the Lake Effect Snow Advisory and the Freezing Rain Advisory.
Cold weather advisories, renamed in 2024
| Old name | New name | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Wind Chill Warning | Extreme Cold Warning | Dangerously cold air is expected or occurring |
| Wind Chill Advisory | Cold Weather Advisory | Cold conditions that could be hazardous if you are outside |
| Wind Chill Watch | Extreme Cold Watch | Dangerously cold air is possible within 24 to 48 hours |
Since October 1, 2024, these can be issued based on temperature alone, with no minimum wind speed. The Hard Freeze Warning was folded into the Freeze Warning at the same time.
What to do
- Allow extra time for travel.
- Clear all snow and ice off your car before driving.
- Slow down on untreated roads.
- Expect school delays rather than closures.