Guides

Understanding High Wind Alerts: A Beginner's Guide

June 17, 2026 · The Clime Team

High winds can pose significant risks, from property damage to personal injury. Understanding the different types of wind alerts and knowing how to respond can make a crucial difference. This guide provides an overview of high wind alerts and offers practical safety tips for beginners.

What Are High Wind Alerts?

High wind alerts are notifications issued by weather authorities to inform the public about expected wind conditions that may be hazardous. These alerts are categorized into three main types:

High Wind Watch: Issued when sustained winds of 40 mph or higher and/or wind gusts of 58 mph or higher are possible within the next 12 to 48 hours. This indicates that conditions are favorable for high winds but they are not yet occurring. It's a time to prepare. (weather.gov)
High Wind Warning: Issued when sustained winds of 40 mph or higher and/or wind gusts of 58 mph or higher are expected to occur within the next 12 to 48 hours. This means high winds are imminent or occurring, and immediate action is necessary. (weather.gov)
Wind Advisory: Issued when sustained winds of 31 to 39 mph and/or wind gusts of 40 to 57 mph are expected. While not as severe as a High Wind Warning, these conditions can still be hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles and unsecured outdoor items. (weather.gov)

How to Stay Safe During High Winds

When high wind alerts are issued, it's essential to take appropriate precautions:

Before High Winds:
Secure Outdoor Items: Bring lightweight objects indoors or tie them down to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles. (weather.gov)
Trim Trees and Branches: Remove dead or rotting branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during high winds. (weather.gov)
Identify Shelter Areas: Know the safest places in your home, such as interior rooms or basements, where you can take shelter during high winds. (weather.gov)
During High Winds:
Stay Indoors: Remain inside a sturdy building, away from windows and doors. (weather.gov)
Avoid Driving: If possible, stay off the roads. If you must drive, keep both hands on the wheel, slow down, and be aware of high-profile vehicles that may be more susceptible to wind gusts. (weather.gov)
Stay Away from Trees and Power Lines: High winds can cause trees and power lines to fall. Maintain a safe distance to avoid injury. (weather.gov)
After High Winds:
Inspect Your Property: Look for damage to your home, vehicles, and outdoor structures. Report any downed power lines to authorities immediately. (weather.gov)
Stay Informed: Continue to monitor weather updates for any additional warnings or advisories. (weather.gov)

How Clime Can Help

Staying informed about weather conditions is crucial for safety. Clime offers real-time weather updates, including high wind alerts, to keep you prepared. With Clime, you can receive timely notifications about severe weather events, ensuring you're always in the know and can take appropriate action.

FAQs

What should I do if a High Wind Warning is issued?

If a High Wind Warning is issued, seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building, away from windows and doors. Avoid driving, especially if you're in a high-profile vehicle, as strong winds can make driving hazardous. (weather.gov)

How can I prepare my home for high winds?

To prepare your home:

Secure or bring inside outdoor items that could become projectiles.
Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines.
Identify an interior room in your house or at work that you can take shelter in during high wind warnings. (weather.gov)

Are there any tools to help me stay informed about high wind alerts?

Yes, Clime provides real-time weather updates, including high wind alerts, to keep you informed and prepared. (weather.gov)

What is the difference between a High Wind Watch and a High Wind Warning?

A High Wind Watch indicates that high winds are possible within the next 12 to 48 hours, while a High Wind Warning means that high winds are expected to occur within the same timeframe. (weather.gov)

How can I stay updated on high wind alerts?

Stay updated by monitoring local weather services, subscribing to weather alert systems, and using weather apps like Clime for real-time notifications. (weather.gov)

Highlights:

HIgh Wind Safety
Wind
Wind Warnings, Watches and Advisories