Small Craft Advisory for Winds

(SCAW): An advisory issued by coastal and Great Lakes Weather Forecast Offices (WFO). This advisory may be included in the Coastal Waters Forecast or Nearshore Marine Forecast products. This advisory may be issued when wave heights are lower than small craft advisory criteria, yet wind speeds are potentially hazardous. Thresholds governing the issuance of small craft advisories are specific to geographic areas.

• Eastern (ME..SC, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario) - Sustained winds ranging between 25 and 33 knots (except 20 to 25 knots, lower threshold area dependent, to 33 knots for harbors, bays, etc.)
• Central (MN..OH) - Sustained winds or frequent gusts (on the Great Lakes) between 22 and 33 knots inclusive.
• Southern (GA..TX and Caribbean) - Sustained winds of 20 to 33 knots that are expected for more than 2 hours.
• Western (WA..CA) - Sustained winds of 21 to 33 knots.
• Alaska (AK) - Sustained winds or frequent gusts of 23 to 33 knots.
• Pacific (HI, Guam, etc) - Sustained winds 25 knots or greater; except in Guam where it is sustained winds of 22 to 33 knots.