Blizzard/Lake Effect Snow/Winter Storm Watch

A "WATCH" is a long range prediction. They are issued at least 12 hours before the hazardous winter weather is expected to begin. A Winter Storm Outlook may be issued before a Watch (normally in the 2 to 5 day time period).

Issued when there is the potential for hazardous winter weather due to various elements:

Heavy snow or heavy lake effect snow. In our region, heavy snow means 7 inches or more of accumulation in 12 hours or less, or 9 inches or more of accumulation in 24 hours or less.
A significant, and possibly damaging accumulation of ice (normally at or greater than 1/2 inch).
Blizzard conditions.
Heavy mixed precipitation (snow, sleet and freezing rain), blowing and drifting snow, etc.
Winter weather causing significant public impact even if the above criteria is not met.

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High Wind Watch

A "WATCH" is a long range prediction. They are issued at least 12 hours before the hazardous winter weather is expected to begin. 

Issued when there is the potential for high winds:

In our region, high winds are considered to be sustained winds speeds of 40 mph or greater, lasting for one hour or longer.
Wind gusts of 58 mph or greater.

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Wind Chill Watch

A "WATCH" is a long range prediction. They are issued at least 12 hours before the hazardous winter weather is expected to begin. 

Issued when there is the potential for dangerous wind chill temperatures with wind speeds of 10 mph or greater):

In our region, dangerous wind chill temperatures are considered to be 25 below zero or colder.
Wind chill temperatures of 30 below zero or colder for Jefferson and Lewis counties.

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Lakeshore Flood Watch

A "WATCH" is a long range prediction. They are issued at least 12 hours before the hazardous winter weather is expected to begin. 

Issued when there is the potential for flooding along the Lake Erie shore due to strong winds resulting in a seiche:

The Lake Erie gage may reach or exceed 8 feet.
If there is the potential of the lake Erie gage reaching 9 feet, then the Upper Niagara River will be included in the watch.

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