As the winter weather season approaches, do you know what the various weather warnings and advisories mean?

* A WINTER STORM WATCH indicates that winter weather may affect your area.

* A WINTER STORM WARNING indicates that severe winter weather conditions are definitely on the way.

* A BLIZZARD WARNING indicates that snow and strong winds combined will produce blinding snow, near-zero visibility, deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill.

* A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY indicates winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, especially to motorists. Knowing what these terms mean will help you to better protect yourself and your loved ones.