How many times have you ever glanced at a weather alert that used terms such as Advisory, Watch, and Warning and thought, “Okay… so what does that mean and what am I actually supposed to do?”
Understanding what these terms mean in the context of emergency alerts will empower you to make informed decisions about your commute to and from work or classes, attending events on campus, and the overall safety of yourself and your loved ones.
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is here to break it down in simple terms for you.
Advisories: “Be Aware/Be Cautious”
What it means: An Advisory is issued when conditions are less severe but could still cause inconvenience or minor hazards.
Think: “Heads up.”
Campus examples:
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Heavy rainfall that could back up storm drains, cause localized flooding, and make sidewalks slippery
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Heat advisories that make outdoor activities uncomfortable
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Poor air quality affecting individuals with heightened respiratory sensitivities
What you should do:
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Stay informed and use extra caution
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Build in more time for commuting
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Dress appropriately and adjust plans if needed
Advisories usually won’t disrupt normal campus operations—but they’re a signal to pay close attention and take basic protective measures.
Watches: “Be Prepared”
What it means: A Watch means conditions are favorable for a potentially dangerous event, but it hasn’t happened yet.
Think: “This could turn serious at any moment.”
Campus examples:
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A Tsunami watch after a severe earthquake
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Winter storm watch ahead of a major system
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Severe thunderstorm watch during the afternoon
What you should do:
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Review your plans for the day or evening
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Know where to go if conditions worsen
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Monitor WarnMe, other university communications, and local forecasts
For faculty and staff, this might mean thinking through contingency plans for fulfilling work assignments if disruptions to campus operations occur. For students, it might be time to reconsider your plans for travel or participation in outdoor activities.
Warnings: “Take Action Now”
What it means: A Warning is issued when a hazard is happening or about to happen. This is the most serious level.
Think: “Act immediately.”
Campus examples:
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Earthquake early warning alert via the MyShake app
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Flash flood warning affecting roadways
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Severe thunderstorm warning with damaging winds
What you should do:
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Drop (or Lock if you’re a wheelchair user), take cover, and hold on until shaking stops
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Seek shelter or avoid affected areas immediately
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Delay travel and prioritize personal safety
Warnings may prompt campus to send additional emergency notifications via WarnMe, Building Emergency Coordinators across campus to take proactive steps to minimize the harmful impacts of the emergency in/around campus buildings, or operational changes. If you receive a Warnming—don’t wait. Take action immediately.
One More Time for Good Measure
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Advisory = Be aware/Be cautious
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Watch = Be prepared
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Warning = Take action now
Consider sharing this with your colleagues and friends. Our collective understanding helps make our campus community safer and more prepared. Visit oem.berkeley.edu for more preparedness information.