Read the cone and center points.
The widening shape represents historical track error—not the storm’s physical size.
Estimate sustained one-minute winds of ≥39 mph.
The percentages describe the chance of reaching that sustained-wind threshold—not the chance of every gust.
Read local forecasts and flood products.
Rain bands can extend beyond the center track, while steep terrain changes wind exposure and runoff.
Read buoy, surf and marine information.
A buoy reading is a measured offshore wave height; breaking surf at a particular shore is different.