Tropical Storm Watch A tropical storm watch is issued when tropical storm conditions, including winds from 39 to 73 mph, pose a possible threat to a specified coastal area within 36 hours. Tropical Storm Warning A tropical storm warning is issued when tropical storm conditions, including winds from 39 to 73 mph, are expected in a specified coastal area within 24 hours or less. Hurricane Watch A hurricane watch is issued for a specified coastal area for which a hurricane or a hurricane-related hazard is a possible threat within 36 hours. Hurricane Warning A hurricane warning is issued when a hurricane with sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or higher is expected in a specified coastal area in 24 hours or less. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continues, even though the winds may have subsided below hurricane intensity. Flash Flood Watch A flash flood watch means a flash flood is possible in the area; stay alert. Flash Flood Warning A flash flood warning means a flash flood is imminent and everyone in the area should take immediate action.