Travel Advisory Levels infographic detailing Advisory, Watch, and Warning levels
Accessible view: Travel Advisory Levels

Travel Advisory Levels

Advisory (Yellow)
The lowest level of local travel advisory, means that routine travel or activities may be restricted in areas because of a hazardous situation, and individuals should use caution or avoid those areas.
Watch (Orange)
Means that conditions are threatening to the safety of the public. During a "watch" local travel advisory, only essential travel, such as to and from work or in emergency situations, is recommended, and emergency action plans should be implemented by businesses, schools, government agencies, and other organizations.
Warning (Red)
The highest level of local travel advisory, means that travel may be restricted to emergency management workers only. During a "warning" local travel advisory, individuals are directed to:
  1. refrain from all travel;
  2. comply with necessary emergency measures;
  3. cooperate with public officials and disaster services forces in executing emergency operations plans; and
  4. obey and comply with the lawful directions of properly identified officers.
Tornado Sheltering Guidelines infographic comparing worst, bad, good, and best sheltering options
Accessible view: Tornado Sheltering Guidelines

Tornado Sheltering Guidelines

Seek the best available refuge area immediately when a Tornado Warning is issued. Your chance of surviving a tornado is excellent if you follow these guidelines.

Worst Options

Action: Find another option

  • Mobile homes
  • Vehicles
  • Underneath a highway overpass

Bad Options

Action: Find another option

  • Large open rooms like gymnasiums
  • Manufactured housing

Good Options

Action: Stay in place until all clear

  • Interior room of a well-constructed home or building
  • Basement

Best Options

Action: Stay in place until all clear

  • Above or below ground Tornado Storm Shelter (NSSA/ICC 500 compliant)*
  • Specifically-designed FEMA Safe Room*

*Recommended by FEMA | Source: NOAA | Photo: U.S. Air Force - Tech. Sgt. Bradley C. Church

National Weather Service definition of Warning, Watch, and Advisory
Accessible view: Weather Alert Definitions

Weather Alert Levels

WARNING (Red)
Hazardous weather is occurring, imminent, or likely. People must take protective action.
WATCH (Yellow)
Risk of hazardous weather has increased, but very possible. Location and timing uncertain.
ADVISORY (Green)
Hazardous weather is occurring, imminent, or likely. It is less serious than warnings, but can cause inconvenience or threaten life.