Part of my responsibility as a TV and radio meteorologist is to broadcast the Advisories and Warnings issued by the National Weather Service. In an attempt to clarify the communication and dissemination of these winter weather bulletins, the NWS has made some modifications to them for this winter.

The most noteworthy change in the “Advisory” category is the elimination of the Snow Advisory. Conditions that previously prompted a Snow Advisory will now be handled by the more all-encompassing Winter Weather Advisory. This is also the advisory that is issued when a mix of rain and snow, sleet, or blowing snow is expected to be hazardous.

The Lake Effect Snow Advisory will continue to be used due to the specific and unique nature of lake effect snows. Also, the Freezing Rain Advisory and Wind Chill Advisory will continue to be used when appropriate.

The most noteworthy change in the “Warning” category is the elimination of the Heavy Snow Warning. Conditions that previously prompted a Heavy Snow Warning will now be handled by the more all-encompassing Winter Storm Warning.

The Lake Effect Snow Warning will continue to be used due to the specific and unique nature of lake effect snows. Also, the Blizzard Warning, Ice Storm Warning and Wind Chill Warning will continue to be used when appropriate.