Tropical cyclone warnings and watches

Part of a series on
Tropical cyclones
Structure Central dense overcast Development Eye
Effects By Region Warnings and watches Storm surge Preparedness Response
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Tropical cyclone naming History List of historical names Lists of retired names: Atlantic, Pacific hurricane, Pacific typhoon, Philippine, Australian, South Pacific
Outline Media coverage Tropical cyclones portal
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Tropical cyclone warnings and watches are alerts issued by national weather forecasting bodies to coastal areas threatened by the imminent approach of a tropical cyclone of tropical storm or hurricane intensity. They are notices to the local population and civil authorities to make appropriate preparation for the cyclone, including evacuation of vulnerable areas where necessary. It is important that interests throughout the area of an alert make preparations to protect life and property, and do not disregard it on the strength of the detailed forecast track.