Weather Tidbits: Wind Advisory vs High Wind Warning

In this edition of Weather Tidbits, we’ll be discussing the difference between a Wind Advisory and a High Wind Warning. A Wind Advisory is issued when strong winds are expected to occur but are not so strong as to warrant a High Wind Warning. Both wind alerts have specific criteria for different national weather service offices. But generally, sustained winds of 31-39 mph for at least one hour are a criterion wind advisory with gusts over 40 mph. A High Wind Warning is issued when sustained, strong winds are possible. Sustained winds are expected to be greater than or equal to 40 mph for at least one hour, or wind gusts at any time meet or exceed 58 mph.