ELI5: What is a hurricane warning?

A hurricane warning means a hurricane is expected soon, so people in that area need to take action right away.

• It is like a big weather alarm saying, “The storm is coming, and it could be dangerous.”
• In everyday life, this means you should stay alert, listen to trusted weather updates, and be ready to stay inside or leave if officials tell you to.
• A warning is more serious than a watch: a watch means a hurricane might happen, but a warning means it is expected.
• For kids, think of it like this: a watch is “get your backpack ready,” and a warning is “it’s time to go now.”
• People may need to move to a safe room, pack important things, charge phones, and follow evacuation orders if they are given.