This image is the homepage for the National Weather on July 11, 2008. The map of the United States has several different colors on it. These colors show the advisories, watches, and warnings for the day. On July 11, Minnesota had tornadoes, hail, and high winds. The red and yellow colors on the map are the tornado watches and warnings for Minnesota on that day.
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Courtesy of the National Weather Service Office of Grand Forks, ND/Chauncy Schultz
Guide to Weather Advisories, Watches, and Warnings
Have you ever heard of a watch, warning, or advisory? The National Weather Service of the United States tells the community if severe weather is on its way by using a watch, warning, or advisory. Each one has its own meaning.
Advisories tell people about weather conditions that are less severe than a watch.
A watch means there is a greater chance for severe weather, but it is still not known if, when, and where the event will take place. A watch allows people to be prepared in case a warning is given.
Warnings mean that severe weather is happening or is likely to happen. It is very important to take action when a warning is issued.
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