Hydro Hazard Simplification FAQs

This page is meant to supplement training material on the Hydro Hazard Simplification project.

In what AWIPS build will the Hydro HazSimp changes occur?

AWIPS 20.2.1 and 20.2.2 will be the transition to using Hazard Services to issue all hydro hazards. The HazSimp turnkey is currently scheduled for May 2021.

How will the Flood and Flash Flood Watch changes affect EAS event codes?

EAS event codes are based on VTEC codes. With Hydro HazSimp, the Flood Watch products (FA.A or FA.A.FlashFlood) are issued for all large-scale threats, with the majority being based on Excessive Rainfall (ER) or Rain and Snowmelt (RS). Flash Flood Watches (FF.A.BurnScar and FF.A.NonConvective) are reserved for small-scale, specialized threats. Therefore, EAS event codes will be:

FA.A VTEC products --> FLA EAS Event Code**
FF.A VTEC products --> FFA EAS Event Code

**IMPORTANT: This may affect how partners receive EAS notifications. The most significant result is when the state/local EAS plan only includes the FFA EAS code and not the FLA EAS event code.

For questions or comments about Hydro HazSimp, please contact Jill Hardy at WDTD.