Tropical storm watch: what it means and what to do
“Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified area within 48 hours.”
weather.gov →Tropical Storm Watches in effect right now
No Tropical Storm Watches in effect right now.
National Weather Service data, updated Nov 2, 2026, 9:44 PM ET. Not an official warning: follow your local NWS office. All US alerts →
What to do now
- The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. The Eastern Pacific season runs May 15 to November 30.
- A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions are possible. A warning means they are expected and is issued 36 hours before tropical-storm-force winds are anticipated.
- Find your evacuation zone now. If you are in a mandatory zone and officials say leave, go immediately.
- Storm surge has historically been the leading cause of hurricane-related deaths in the U.S., so take your surge risk seriously.
From our hurricane preparedness checklist guide, which links every source.
Watch, warning or advisory?
Each in the National Weather Service's own words.
Tropical Storm Watch
“Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified area within 48 hours.”
Tropical Storm Warning
“Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within your area within 36 hours.”
Hurricane Watch
“Hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or greater) are possible within your area. Because it may not be safe to prepare for a hurricane once winds reach tropical storm force, The NHC issues hurricane watches 48 hours before it anticipates tropical storm-force winds.”
Tropical storm conditions are possible within 48 hours. Check your supplies, charge devices, and know where you would go if officials order an evacuation.
Get ready before the next one
Also: Go-bag checklist · Power outage checklist
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