Heat Alerts Get New Names as the National Weather Service Streamlines Messaging During Heat Waves

Written by Meteorologist Mary Wasson

Last updated 3/9/2025, 10:24:41 PM

We are still a few weeks away from the official start of spring, but it’s never too early to discuss the heat and the significant changes the National Weather Service (NWS) is implementing for their heat alerts this upcoming summer.


Among the changes, the NWS is renaming the heat alerts to enhance clarity in communication regarding extreme heat events.


According to a statement from the NWS, alerts that previously used the term "excessive heat" will now be referred to as "extreme heat" for more impactful messaging during a heat wave. This means that an Excessive Heat Watch or Warning will now be termed an Extreme Heat Watch or Warning. However, a Heat Advisory will remain unchanged.



These are similar to the changes that were made to the cold weather alerts this past winter.


  • Extreme Heat Warning—Take Action! An Extreme Heat Warning is issued when extremely dangerous heat conditions are expected or occurring.  Avoid outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay indoors in an air-conditioned space as much as possible, including overnight. Check on family and neighbors. 
  • Extreme Heat Watch—Be Prepared! An Extreme Heat Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for an extreme heat event but its occurrence and timing is still uncertain. Plan to suspend all major outdoor activities if a warning is issued. If you do not have air conditioning, locate the nearest cooling shelter or discuss staying with nearby family or friends who have air conditioning.
  • Heat Advisory—Take Action! A Heat Advisory is issued for dangerous heat conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria. Consider postponing or rescheduling outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay in a cool place, especially during the heat of the day and evening.


These changes are part of the NWS’s Hazard Simplification project. For many years, the NWS has utilized the Watch, Warning and Advisory (WWA) system to inform the public about forecasted hazards. While this system has been effective in safeguarding life and property, surveys have shown that many people find the WWA terminology confusing. Additionally, users often struggle to interpret and differentiate among the other products such as Wind Advisory, Flood Watch and Winter Storm Warning.  


To address these issues, Hazard Simplification project has embarked on two main paths:

1.) Consolidate: Reduce the number of WWA products

2.) Reformat:  Simplify the WWA product text



As always, use caution when dealing with extreme heat waves.

  • Slow down: Reduce, eliminate or reschedule strenuous activities until the coolest time of the day.
  • Children, seniors and anyone with health concerns should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.
  • Dress for summer: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to reflect heat