Wind
Wind Advisory vs High Wind Warning: Gusts, Damage, and Travel Risk
What wind advisories and high wind warnings mean, how gusts cause damage, and why high-profile vehicles, trees, and power lines are vulnerable.
Quick answer: A wind advisory means strong winds could cause inconvenience or minor damage. A high wind warning means damaging winds are expected or occurring.
Advisory conditions
Advisory-level wind can blow around trash cans, branches, signs, and outdoor furniture. Driving can be harder for high-profile vehicles.
Even without thunderstorms, gradient winds can create rough conditions.
Warning conditions
High wind warnings are more serious. Trees, power lines, roofs, and travel can be affected.
Avoid unnecessary travel in exposed areas and secure outdoor objects before winds peak.
Gusts vs sustained wind
Gusts are short bursts that often cause damage. Sustained wind describes a longer average.
Forecasts often mention both because impacts depend on each.