Reading NHC Products
The cone, track maps, wind probabilities, in plain language.
See also the Products Guide for how to read each NHC graphic.
The Cone of Uncertainty: What It Shows (and What It Hides)
The "cone" is the most recognized hurricane graphic — and the most misread. Understanding it prevents a dangerous mistake. What the cone actually represents The cone shows the probable track of the center of the storm. Its width is not based on this particular storm; it is drawn from the…
beginnerReading Hurricane Track Forecast Maps 🔒
## Understanding Hurricane Track Forecast Maps The "Cone of Uncertainty" is one of the most misunderstood weather graphics. Let's break it down: ### What the Cone Shows: - **Center Line**: Most likely track of the storm's CENTER - **Cone Area**: Where the center could be 67% of the time - **NOT**:…
beginnerUnderstanding NHC Products 🔒
The National Hurricane Center issues various products: ** Public Advisory **: Plain-language summary for the public ** Marine Advisory **: Detailed info for mariners ** Forecast Discussion **: Technical analysis by forecasters ** Updates **: Quick updates between regular advisories ** Wind Speed…
intermediateWind Probabilities Explained 🔒
## Understanding Wind Speed Probabilities Wind speed probability products show the chance of experiencing specific wind speeds at your location. Here's how to interpret them: ### What the Numbers Mean: #### **34-knot (39 mph) Probabilities** - Tropical storm force winds - When you'll start seeing…
intermediate