Rest stop
Trail Questions Answered
Pull up a bench. These are the questions fellow walkers ask us most, answered plainly. Tap a question to open it.
Reading the levels
What is the difference between a watch and a warning?
A watch means conditions are favourable for hazardous weather, so get ready. A warning means the hazard is happening or imminent, so take protective action now. See Waypoint 1.
Do yellow, amber and red mean the same everywhere?
Not exactly. The Met Office uses yellow, amber and red on an impact matrix; Meteoalarm uses green, yellow, orange and red. They're similar in spirit, but each service defines its levels in its own way. Read your national service's legend.
Phones and channels
Will I get an emergency alert on my phone without an app?
In many countries, yes. Cell broadcast systems such as UK Emergency Alerts, US Wireless Emergency Alerts and EU-Alert reach compatible phones in an area without any app or sign-up. See Waypoint 2.
Why did my phone make a loud noise even on silent?
Severe cell broadcast alerts are designed to sound and vibrate even when a phone is on silent, so urgent warnings aren't missed. Check your phone's emergency alert settings to see which types you can adjust.
Scales and signals
What does Typhoon Signal No. 8 mean in Hong Kong?
It means gale or storm force winds are expected or blowing, and it's issued with a direction, such as No. 8 Southeast. Schools and most businesses typically close. See Waypoint 3.
Is a Category 1 hurricane safe to ignore?
No. The Saffir-Simpson scale only measures sustained wind. Storm surge and rainfall flooding from lower-category storms can still be deadly. Follow every evacuation order.
At home
How can I tell if a warning on social media is real?
Ask who issued it, when, and where it applies — then confirm it at the official source before sharing. See the rumour check in Waypoint 4.
What should go in a basic storm kit?
At least three days of drinking water and non-perishable food, a torch, a battery or hand-crank radio, spare batteries, first aid, essential medicines, power banks, document copies and some cash.
How often should we review our household plan?
At least once a year, and whenever your household, home or phone numbers change. A short annual drill keeps it fresh.
Is Signalstormediapanda an official warning source?
No. We're an independent educational guide. Always follow your national weather service and local authorities, and call your local emergency number if lives are at risk.