Michael Petruccelli says; Approx 48 hours ahead of a storm, forecasters will issue a Hurricane Watch. Watch for areas within the cone can expect hurricane conditions. Due to the fact that hurricanes can be erratic, everyone in that area must prepare as if the storm is headed directly for their home. If the storm changes path or speed, the time frame between a Watch and a Warning might be only 6 hours. During a Watch, the focus should be on preparing for the Warning.
