A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions are possible in a stated area. Hurricane watches are issued 48 hours before experts expect the onset of tropical-storm-force winds. When a hurricane watch is issued, your should begin taking action to prepare for the event. A hurricane warning is more serious. It means hurricane-force winds are expected in a stated area. Hurricane warnings are issued 36 hours before experts expect the onset of tropical-storm-force winds. By this time, you should be executing whatever action has been recommended for your area.