National Weather Service announces new winter hazard wording

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – As the colder months approach, the National Weather Service has simplified its conditions regarding winter weather hazards.

This was done to improve the messaging and communication of products such as Extreme Cold, Freeze and Wind Chill for Watches, Warnings and Tips. This will also enable clearer maps of observations, warnings and advisories.

According to the National Weather Service, wind chill watches, warnings and advisories will be consolidated under Extreme Cold Weather Watches, Warnings and Advisories. The reason for this is to communicate that the cold is dangerous with or without wind.

NWS New Winter Hazard(WOW)

Additionally, severe frost watches and warnings will be consolidated under Freeze Watches and Warnings. This was done to simplify message communication. This focuses primarily on plants and the growing season to provide people with the information they need to take preventive actions when temperatures drop below freezing.

NWS New Winter Hazard(WOW)

Although the first frost of the season in Omaha usually occurs in mid-October, it will likely happen a little later this year. You can stay up to date with the 6 first alert forecast.

Average first freeze(WOW)