MAINE, USA — As we head into colder days, the National Weather Service is updating its cold weather alerts to make things easier to understand on the go.
Starting this season, you'll notice a few changes. Wind Chill Watches, Warnings, and Advisories? Gone. Instead, the NWS is rolling them into simpler, clearer alerts.
Now, when it's cold—wind or no wind—you'll see various alerts. A Cold Weather Advisory will be issued for a typical winter chill, nothing out of the ordinary.
But if it's getting dangerously cold, we'll see two new alerts.
An Extreme Cold Watch means conditions could turn severe, so stay tuned to the forecast.
An Extreme Cold Warning means dangerously cold air is expected. That's your signal to layer up, cover exposed skin, and limit outdoor time, because conditions like these can lead to frostbite or hypothermia.
Don't worry—we'll still let you know when wind chill is a factor, but this keeps the messaging surrounding cold weather alerts much clearer.
When it's cold outside, it's cold, regardless of wind chill.
Lastly, Freeze Watches and Warnings are being streamlined too.
A Freeze Watch now covers potential freezing conditions, and a Freeze Warning will replace the old Hard Freeze alert. It's fewer terms, same vital info.
We're still covering every winter weather risk as always. The only difference this season is that alerts should be quicker and clearer, keeping you safe and informed all winter long.