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What's the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning?

With it being hurricane season, it's important to know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning.

According to Ready.gov:

A tropical storm/hurricane watch means sustained tropical storm (39 mph to 73 mph) / hurricane (74 mph and higher) force winds are possible within 48 hours. Be prepared to evacuate.

A tropical storm/hurricane warning means sustained tropical storm (39 mph to 73 mph) / hurricane (74 mph and higher) force winds are expected within 36 hours. If local authorities advise you to evacuate, leave immediately.

PHOTOS: Stunning views of hurricanes from space

PHOTOS: Stunning views of hurricanes from space

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IN SPACE - NOVEMBER 8: In this handout from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Super Typhoon Haiyan moves over the Philippines on November 8, 2013 from space. Haiyan, A category-5 typhoon being called one of the strongest storms on record, slammed into the Philippines November 8, with gusts up to 186 mile per hour (300 kilometers per hour) and sustained winds thought to be up to 195 miles per hour (313 kilometers per hour.) (Photo by NOAA via Getty Images)

More hurricane preparedness tips:

- What should be in your hurricane ready kit

- What you should do to prepare for a hurricane