01:19 AM CDT on Wednesday, September 10, 2003

• Tropical Disturbance: A moving area of thunderstorms originating in the tropics and maintaining its identity for 24 hours or more.

• Tropical Depression: An organized system of thunderstorms with a constant wind speed of 38 mph.

• Tropical Storm: An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined counterclockwise circulation and a constant wind speed that ranges from 39-73 mph.

• Hurricane Watch: Issued when the threat of a hurricane is possible within a 24-36 hour period

• Hurricane Warning: Issued when hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours or less. Immediate action should be taken to protect life and property.

• Hurricane: An intense tropical weather system with a pronounced rotary circulation and a constant wind speed of 74 mph or more. A hurricane has three conponents that include wind, heavy rains and a storm surge.