An observation describes weather at a station at a particular time. A forecast covers a future period. An alert applies to a defined area and has its own instructions and expiration time. A screenshot or forwarded link may be out of date.
Know what is confirmed
Official forecasts and warnings come from the named weather service. Community reports are individual observations and may be incomplete or incorrect. A published report is not an official warning.
Have another way to receive warnings
Websites, phones and internet connections can fail. Use more than one warning method, such as Wireless Emergency Alerts, NOAA Weather Radio and local emergency notifications. This Weather Center does not send Wireless Emergency Alerts or replace those services.
