Winter weather alerts: What they mean and how to respond

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- There are multiple different kinds of severe winter weather alerts -- but what do they all mean, and how should you respond to each of them?

In the wake of a late January snow and ice storm, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) took to Facebook to provide a helpful guide to the various types of winter weather alerts.

Firstly, it's important to understand the difference between a severe weather "watch" and a "warning." A watch means that severe weather is possible, but not guaranteed, based on current conditions. A warning means that severe weather is expected.

In the case of a watch, you should prepare yourself for potential severe weather. When a warning is issued, you need to take action.

Richmond asks for patience with snow-clearing on neighborhood roads

Here's a breakdown of four major types of severe winter weather alerts.

• Extreme Cold Watch
  • What does it mean? Dangerously cold air, with or without accompanying winds, is possible.
  • What should I do? Keep an eye on your local forecast and prepare for a potential extreme cold warning.
• Extreme Cold Warning
  • What does it mean? Dangerously cold air, with or without accompanying winds, is expected.
  • What should I do? Limit your time outside. If you must go outside, dress in layers and cover any exposed skin to avoid hypothermia and/or frostbite.
• Winter Storm Watch
  • What does it mean? Heavy snow, sleet and/or freezing rain is possible.
  • What should I do? Be prepared to adjust your travel plans if a winter storm warning is issued.
• Winter Storm Warning
  • What does it mean? Heavy snow, sleet and/or freezing rain is expected.
  • What should I do? Stay home and off the roads if at all possible, as conditions will become dangerous. Cancel, delay or adjust your travel plans until conditions improve.

To put these ideas into context, a winter storm warning is the type of alert that was issued once it was understood that a powerful winter storm would hit Virginia on Saturday, Jan. 24.

How to safely thaw frozen pipes during prolonged cold weather: VDEM

For more winter weather preparation tips from VDEM, click here.