High Wind Warnings, Watches and Wind Advisories: What Each NWS Alert Means
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How we wrote this: A plain-English summary of National Weather Service safety guidance, checked October 29, 2026. Always follow your local NWS forecast office. Criteria for land wind alerts are set by each local office.
Why wind matters
High winds can come with severe thunderstorms, strong weather systems or air flowing down mountains. The NWS says sustained winds of 40 to 50 mph can cause isolated damage, and straight-line winds in strong storms can top 100 mph.
The alerts
| Alert | Meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| High Wind Watch | Strong sustained winds are possible | Secure loose items and adjust plans |
| High Wind Warning | Strong winds with stronger gusts are happening | Seek shelter; if driving, both hands on the wheel and slow down |
| Wind Advisory | Strong winds, but below warning level | Secure outdoor objects; drive with caution |
| Dust Storm Warning | Visibility ½ mile or less in blowing dust or sand, with winds 30 mph+ | Take action: low visibility and strong winds |
| Severe Thunderstorm Warning | Winds 58 mph+ and/or hail 1 inch+ happening or imminent | Get inside a sturdy building, away from windows |
Local NWS offices set the criteria for High Wind and Wind Advisory alerts, so the thresholds vary by region.
On the water
- Gale Warning: sustained winds or frequent gusts of 34 to 47 knots (39 to 55 mph) are expected within 36 hours, not from a tropical cyclone.
- Hurricane Force Wind Warning: 64 knots (74 mph) or more, also not tropical.
In both cases, make sure your vessel is secure in port. For hurricanes, see the Saffir-Simpson scale.
Related: severe thunderstorm watch vs. warning, snow squalls.