The container for all component parts of the info element. 

<info>
  info elements

  <area>
    area elements
  </area>

</info> 
 

<alert xmlns = “urn:oasis:names:tc:emergency:cap:1.2”>

 alert elements

  <info>
   info elements

    <area>
     area elements
    </area> 

  </info> 

  <info>
   info elements

    <area>
     area elements
    </area> 

  </info>

</alert>

One or more <info> blocks are included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS. 

The code denoting the category of the subject event in the alert message. Multiple instances may occur within an <info> block. 

<category>category</category>

Where category is one of the following according to the CAP v1.2 standard: 

• "Geo" - Geophysical (inc. landslide) 
• "Met" - Meteorological (inc. flood) 
• "Safety" - General emergency and public safety 
• "Security" - Law enforcement, military, homeland and local/private security 
• "Rescue" - Rescue and recovery 
• "Fire" – Fire suppression and rescue 
• "Health" - Medical and public health 
• "Env" - Pollution and other environmental 
• "Transport" - Public and private transportation 
• "Infra" - Utility, telecommunication, other non-transport infrastructure 
• "CBRNE" – Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear or High-Yield Explosive threat or attack 
• "Other" – Other events

<category>Met</category>
<category>Health</category>

Included in every <info> block.

The text denoting the type of the subject event in the alert message.

<event>event</event> 

<event>Tornado Warning</event>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS.

Severity of the subject event of the alert message 

<severity>severity</severity> 

Where severity is one of the following values for the given alert type. 

• “Extreme” - Extraordinary threat to life or property 
• “Severe” - Significant threat to life or property 
• “Moderate” - Possible threat to life or property 
• “Minor” – Minimal to no known threat to life or property 
• “Unknown” - Severity unknown 

<severity>Extreme</severity>

Included in every <info> block. 

Certainty of the subject event of the alert message. 

<certainty>certainty</certainty> 

Where certainty is one of the following values for the given alert type.

• “Observed” – Determined to have occurred or to be ongoing 
• “Likely” - Likely (p > ~50%) 
• “Possible” - Possible but not likely (p <= ~50%) 
• “Unlikely” - Not expected to occur (p ~ 0) 
• “Unknown” - Certainty unknown 

<certainty>Expected</certainty>

Included in every <info> block. 

Name of the issuing NWS Office. 

<senderName>senderName</senderName>

Where senderName is the name of the NWS office which issued the alert. 

<senderName>NWS Miami (Southern Florida)</senderName>

Included in every <info> block. 

The text describing the subject event of the alert message. 

<description>description</description> 

<description>* WHAT...For the Winter Storm Warning, heavy wet snow. Additional snow  accumulations of 1 to 3 inches this morning. Winds gusting 30 to 40 mph at exposed higher elevation locations. For the Winter Weather Advisory above 4000 feet, snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 6 inches. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph. For the Winter Storm Watch, heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 15 to 30 inches possible. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph.

* WHERE...This morning slushy roads are possible along Interstate 5. Expect greater travel impacts above 3500 foot elevations such as Highway 89 at Snowmans Summit and on the Mount Shasta Ski Park Road. All other higher elevation roads will be affected early this morning. The main impacts during the advisory time period will be above 4000 feet along portions of Highway 89. The Winter Storm Watch is for all areas.

* WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, until 7 AM PST this morning. For the Winter Weather Advisory, from 4 PM this afternoon to 4 AM PST Friday. For the Winter Storm Watch, from Friday morning through Monday morning.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute.

* View the hazard area in detail at https://www.wrh.noaa.gov/map/?wfo=mfr</description>

Included in every <info> block. For alerts which are ended, the <description> may only state that the subject event is no longer expected in the area. 

The text describing the recommended action to be taken by recipients of the alert message. 

<instruction>instruction</instruction> 

<instruction>* Travel is strongly discouraged because of dangerous conditions. * If you must travel, keep tire chains, a flashlight, blankets, food, water, medications, and a fully charged phone with you. * The safest place during a winter storm is indoors. * A Winter Storm Warning means that severe winter weather is occurring and poses a threat to life and property. Take protective action now.</instruction>

Included in most <info> blocks. For alerts which are ended, an <instruction> may not be included.

A hyperlink where additional information about the alert can be found. 

<web>URL</web> 

<web>http://www.weather.gov</web>

Included in every <info> block. 

The code denoting the language of the info sub-element of the alert message.

<language>language</language>

Where language is "en-US" for English or "es-US" for Spanish. 

<language>en-US</language>

Included in every NWS CAP <info> block. NWS Spanish language <info> blocks contain Spanish language in the CMAMtext and CMAMlongtext parameters in order to provide Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) information in Spanish on capable mobile devices. All other information in a Spanish <info> block is in English. 

The code denoting the type of action recommended for the target audience. Multiple instances may occur within an <info> block. 

<responseType>responseType</responseType>

Where responseType is one of the following values as defined in the CAP v1.2 standard. 

• "Shelter" - Take shelter in place or per <instruction> 
• "Evacuate" - Relocate as instructed in the <instruction> 
• "Prepare" - Make preparations per the <instruction> 
• "Execute" - Execute a pre-planned activity identified in <instruction> 
• "Avoid" - Avoid the subject event as per the <instruction> 
• "Monitor" - Attend to information sources as described in <instruction>
• "Assess" – Evaluate the information in this message. Not used by NWS.
• "AllClear" - The subject event no longer poses a threat or concern and any follow on action is described in <instruction>
• "None" - No action recommended

<responseType>Shelter</responseType>

Included in every <info> block.

Urgency of the subject event of the alert message. 

<urgency>urgency</urgency> 

Where urgency is one of the following values for the given alert type. 

• “Immediate” - Responsive action SHOULD be taken immediately 
• “Expected” - Responsive action SHOULD be taken soon (within next hour) 
• “Future” - Responsive action SHOULD be taken in the near future 
• “Past” - Responsive action is no longer required 
• “Unknown” - Urgency not known

<urgency>Immediate</urgency>

Included in every <info> block. An <urgency> value of “Past” is used by NWS to convey that the alert is ended for the area covered by the <info> block.

The effective date and time of the information in the alert message.  In other words, the CAP message itself (i.e., the alert) is effective at the time it is sent.   

<effective> should not be confused with any use of “effect” and/or “effective” terminology in the plain language text of the alert because they may not have the same meaning.  The <effective> date and time may also not be the same as the <onset> date and time which reflects the beginning of the subject event in the alert message.    

<effective>YYYY-MM-DDThh:mm:ssXzh:zm</effective>

Where:

• YYYY = Year 
• MM = Month (01-12) 
• DD = Day, 2 digits with leading zeros (01-31) 
• T marks the start of the time section 
• hh = 24-hour format of an hour with leading zeros (00-23) 
• mm = Minutes with leading zeros (00-59) 
• ss = Seconds, with leading zeros (00-59) 
• X = The symbol "+" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone ahead of UTC, or the symbol "-" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone behind UTC.  If the time is in UTC, the symbol "-" will be used.
• zh = Hours of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC
• zm = Minutes of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC

<effective>2011-05-24T16:49:00-07:00</effective>

refers to May 24, 2011 at 4:49:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time. 

Included in every <info> block. 

Expected time of the beginning of the subject event in the alert message.  The value for <onset> may be the same as that for <effective> when the event is already occurring or imminent.

<onset>YYYY-MM-DDThh:mm:ssXzh:zm</onset>

Where:

• YYYY = Year 
• MM = Month (01-12) 
• DD = Day, 2 digits with leading zeros (01-31) 
• T marks the start of the time section 
• hh = 24-hour format of an hour with leading zeros (00-23) 
• mm = Minutes with leading zeros (00-59) 
• ss = Seconds, with leading zeros (00-59) 
• X = The symbol "+" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone ahead of UTC, or the symbol "-" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone behind UTC.  If the time is in UTC, the symbol "-" will be used.
• zh = Hours of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC
• zm = Minutes of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC

<onset>2011-07-04T17:12:00-05:00</onset>

refers to July 4, 2011 at 5:12:00 PM Central Daylight Time. 

Included in every <info> block.

The expiration date and time of the information in the alert message. This is the time at which the information in the message should be considered stale and no longer used.  The NWS forecaster will update or cancel the alert by the <expires> time.  <expires> should not be confused with any use of “expire” and/or “expiration” terminology in the plain language text of the alert because they may not have the same meaning.  The <expires> date and time may also not be the same as the <eventEndingTime> parameter which reflects the expected end time of the event in the alert message.  

<expires>YYYY-MM-DDThh:mm:ssXzh:zm</expires>

Where:

• YYYY = Year 
• MM = Month (01-12) 
• DD = Day, 2 digits with leading zeros (01-31) 
• T marks the start of the time section 
• hh = 24-hour format of an hour with leading zeros (00-23) 
• mm = Minutes with leading zeros (00-59) 
• ss = Seconds, with leading zeros (00-59) 
• X = The symbol "+" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone ahead of UTC, or the symbol "-" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone behind UTC.  If the time is in UTC, the symbol "-" will be used.
• zh = Hours of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC
• zm = Minutes of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC

<expires>2012-05-30T09:30:00-04:00</expires>

refers to May 30, 2012 at 9:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time. 

Included in every <info> block. 

A brief human-readable headline.   

<headline>headline</headline>

Where headline is a brief human-readable headline.

<headline>Winter Storm Warning issued January 4 at 9:36AM EST until January 6 at 7:00AM EST by NWS Gaylord MI</headline>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS. 

A system-specific code identifying the event type of the alert message. 

<eventCode>
  <valueName>SAME</valueName>
  <value>XXX</value>
</eventCode>
<eventCode>
  <valueName>NationalWeatherService</valueName>
  <value>PPS</value>
</eventCode>

Where:

XXX is a three character event code from FCC Part 11.31 (FCC Title 47, Part 11, EAS Rules and Regulations) or the value “NWS”.  

PPS is the NWS phenomena and significance string for the alert type.  The PPS is a concatenation of the two character Phenomena (PP) and one character Significance (S) code from the NWS Valid Time Event Code (VTEC) string for the alert type.  If the NWS has no VTEC string for the alert type (e.g., Special Weather Statement), then an alternative three-character code will be used (e.g., SPS).  See https://www.weather.gov/vtec/ for more information about VTEC.

The NWS produces many types of alerts, some of which are not listed in FCC Part 11.31.  A SAME value (XXX) of “NWS” means the alert is not for a type listed in FCC Part 11.31.  The NWS has a special agreement with FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) so that alerts with an XXX of “NWS” pass through to the IPAWS public alerts feed.  This way, third party redistributors of official alert information have access to all NWS CAP messages through the IPAWS public feed.

For an alert type listed in FCC Part 11.31:

<eventCode>
  <valueName>SAME</valueName>
  <value>SVR</value>
</eventCode>

<eventCode>
   <valueName>NationalWeatherService</valueName>
   <value>SVW</value>
</eventCode>

For an alert type NOT listed in FCC Part 11.31: 

<eventCode>
   <valueName>SAME</valueName>
   <value>NWS</value>
</eventCode>

<eventCode>
   <valueName>NationalWeatherService</valueName>
   <value>MSY</value>
</eventCode>

Included in every <info> block. The following SAME and NationalWeatherService eventCode values may be used in NWS CAP messages.

The container for all component parts of the alert message. 

<alert xmlns = “urn:oasis:names:tc:emergency:cap:1.2”>
 alert elements

  <info>
   info elements

    <area>
     area elements
    </area> 

  </info> 
</alert> 

<alert xmlns = “urn:oasis:names:tc:emergency:cap:1.2”>
.
. 
.
</alert>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS. 

The code denoting the appropriate handling of the alert message.

<scope>scope</scope>

Where scope is one of the following according to the CAP v1.2 standard: 

• "Public" - For general dissemination to unrestricted audiences 
• "Restricted" - For dissemination only to users with a known operational requirement. Not used by the NWS. 
• "Private" - For dissemination only to specified addresses. Not used by the NWS.

<scope>Public</scope>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS. NWS does not currently use “Restricted” or “Private”.

Email address of the NWS webmaster.

<sender>w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov</sender> 

<sender>w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov</sender>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS. 

A string which uniquely identifies the CAP message. 

<identifier>id</identifier> 

Where id is a string not to exceed 30 characters.  May contain letters, numbers, and periods (i.e., “.").

<identifier>urn:oid:2.49.0.1.840.0.3131ccefbad1d7e3316165d8ae3a0f802b688a1e.003.2</identifier>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS.

The code denoting the nature of the alert message. 

<msgType>msgType</msgType>

Where msgType is one of the following according to the CAP v1.2 standard: 

• "Alert" - Initial information requiring attention by targeted recipients
• "Update" - Updates and supercedes the earlier message(s) identified in <references>
• "Cancel" - Cancels the earlier message(s) identified in <references>.
• "Ack" - Acknowledges receipt and acceptance of the message(s) identified in <references>. Not currently used by NWS. 
• "Error" – Indicates rejection of the message(s) identified in <references>; explanation SHOULD appear in <note>. Not currently used by NWS. 

<msgType>Alert</msgType>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS. 

The origination time and date of the alert message. 

<sent>YYYY-MM-DDThh:mm:ssXzh:zm</sent>

Where:

• YYYY = Year 
• MM = Month (01-12)
• DD = Day, 2 digits with leading zeros (01-31) 
• T marks the start of the time section
• hh = 24-hour format of an hour with leading zeros (00-23)
• mm = Minutes with leading zeros (00-59)
• ss = Seconds, with leading zeros(00-59)
• X = The symbol "+" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone ahead of UTC, or the symbol "-" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone behind UTC.  If the time is in UTC, the symbol "-" will be used.
• zh = Hours of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC
• zm = Minutes of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC

<sent>2011-05-24T16:49:00-07:00</sent>

refers to May 24, 2011 at 4:49:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time. 

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS.

The code denoting the appropriate handling of the alert message. 

<status>status</status>

Where status is one of the following: 

• "Actual" - Actionable by all targeted recipients
• "Exercise" - Actionable only by designated exercise participants; exercise identifier SHOULD appear in <note>. Not currently used by NWS.
• "System" - For messages that support alert network internal functions. Not currently used by NWS.
• "Test" - Technical testing only, all recipients disregard; test identifier SHOULD appear in <note>
• "Draft" – A preliminary template or draft, not actionable in its current form. Not currently used by NWS. 

<status>Actual</status>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS. Only in rare cases would a value other than “Actual” be used.

Version of the CAP IPAWS profile as adopted by FEMA to which the subject CAP message conforms. 

<code>IPAWSvn.n</code>

Where n.n is the version of the CAP IPAWS profile as adopted by FEMA.

<code>IPAWSv1.0</code>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS. 

The text describing the purpose or significance of the alert message. 

<note>note<note>

<note>This is a only a test.  A national exercise is being conducted.  This is only a test.</note>

Included in NWS CAP messages when the <status> is "Test" or when the alert is for a Non-Weather Emergency Message (NWEM).

References the most recent message to which the current message refers or replaces. 

<references>sender,identifier,sent</references>

Where sender, identifier, and sent are the <sender>, <identifier>, and <sent> elements from the earlier CAP message or messages that this one replaces. When multiple messages are referenced, they are separated by whitespace. 

<references>w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov,urn:oid:2.49.0.1.840.0.1e85330c03acd93ee99f9e9a40307a7dd4807519.002.1,2021-12-21T22:14:00-05:00 w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov,urn:oid:2.49.0.1.840.0.d2de7d9280fc745725ab9b5651f89044c17e6385.002.1,2021-12-22T03:30:00-05:00</references>

Included whenever the NWS updates or cancels an alert for which a CAP message has been produced. NWS references all active messages (ones with at least one active <info> block) impacted by the new message. An “active” <info> block is one that has not yet reached its <expires> time. Referencing all alert messages with <info> blocks that still have an <expires> time in the future ensures that any messages that may still be playing incorrectly are properly superseded by the most recent Update or Cancel. This resolves issues caused by transmission delays and/or lost messages that may result in message chains being broken. If only a single reference were used, a missed message could result in an alert playing beyond its intended time.

The container for all sub-elements of the area element. 

<area>
  area elements
</area>

<area>
  <areaDesc>Honolulu</areaDesc>
  <polygon>21.49,-157.94 21.62,-157.99 21.67,-157.88 21.41,-157.77 21.36,-157.81 21.49,-157.94</polygon>
  <geocode>
    <valueName>UGC</valueName>
    <value>HIC003</value>
  </geocode>
  <geocode>
    <valueName>SAME</valueName>
    <value>015003</value>
  </geocode>
</area>

Included in every <info> block.

The text describing the affected area of the alert message.

<areaDesc>Location[; Location…]</areaDesc> 

Where Location is a county, parish, borough, or independent city. 

<areaDesc>Mahaska; Poweshiek</areaDesc>

Included in every <info> block. 

The paired values of points defining a polygon that delineates the affected area of the alert message. 

<polygon>Lat,Lon Lat,Lon Lat,Lon Lat,Lon [; Lat,Lon…]</polygon>

Where Lat,Lon is a latitude and longitude coordinate pair. A minimum of 4 coordinate pairs is present. The first and last pair will always be the same. 

<polygon>41.50,-92.30 41.50,-92.40 41.48,-92.41 41.51,-92.76 41.63,-92.76 41.66,-92.30 41.50,-92.30</polygon>

Included in NWS <info> blocks with the following <eventCode>. 

• TOR (Tornado Warning) 
• SVR (Severe Thunderstorm Warning) 
• SVS (Severe Weather Statement) 
• SMW (Special Marine Warning) 
• MWS (Marine Weather Statement) 
• FFW (Convective Flash Flood Warning) 
• FLW (Areal Flood Warning) 
• FFS (Convective Flash Flood Statement) 
• FLS (Areal Flood Advisory or Areal Flood Statement) 
• EWW (Extreme Wind Warning) 

The geographic code delineating the affected area of the alert message. Multiple instances MAY occur within an <Area> block. 

<geocode>
  <valueName>SAME</valueName>
  <value>SAME</value>
</geocode>

<geocode>
  <valueName>UGC</valueName>
  <value>SSFNNN</value>
</geocode>

Where 

• SAME is the 6-digit [Specific Area Message Encoding code]. 
• SS = Two-letter standard Post Office state (or marine area) identifier 
• F = C or Z where 
• C means the NNN represents a [3-digit FIPS county], parish, or independent city number. NNN may also be ALL representing all of the counties in a state, or the numbers 000 representing all, or an unspecified part, of a state. 
• Z means the NNN represents a 3-digit [NWS zone number]. NNN may also be ALL representing all of the zones in a state, or the numbers 000 representing all, or an unspecified part, of a state. 

Many NWS alerts contain the (C) form of the UGC. Alerts using the zone (Z) form of the UGC include non-precipitation watch/warning/advisories and winter storm watch/warning/advisories. There are three listings of NWS zones: public zones, coastal and offshore marine zones, fire weather zones each found on the NWS GIS web page at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/geodata/ under NWSM libraries. Public zones and coastal and offshore marine zones are the zones in primary use in most NWS products and the geographic areas and zone numbering complement one another. Fire weather zones are used only in specialized products and use zone numbering that overlaps public zone numbers (i.e., fire weather and public zone numbers must not be mixed or used together). Fire weather alerts include Red Flag Warnings, Fire Weather Watches,  Rangeland/Grassland Fire Danger and their corresponding NWSevent <eventCode> values  FWW, FWA, and RFD.
 

<geocode>
  <valueName>SAME</valueName>
  <value>012009</value>
</geocode>
<geocode>
  <valueName>SAME</valueName>
  <value>012095</value>
</geocode>
<geocode>
  <valueName>SAME</valueName>
  <value>012097</value>
</geocode>
<geocode>
  <valueName>SAME</valueName>
  <value>012117</value>
</geocode>
<geocode>
  <valueName>SAME</valueName>
  <value>012127</value>
</geocode>
<geocode>
  <valueName>UGC</valueName>
  <value>FLC009</value>
</geocode>
<geocode>
  <valueName>UGC</valueName>
  <value>FLC095</value>
</geocode>
<geocode>
  <valueName>UGC</valueName>
  <value>FLC097</value>
</geocode>
<geocode>
  <valueName>UGC</valueName>
  <value>FLC117</value>
</geocode>
<geocode>
  <valueName>UGC</valueName>
  <value>FLC127</value>
</geocode>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS. 

Denotes additional information associated with the alert message. 

<parameter>
  <valueName>valueName</valueName>
  <value>value</value>
</parameter> 
 

<parameter>
  <valueName>VTEC</valueName>
  <value>/O.CON.KDMX.SV.W.0004.000000T0000Z-110321T1845Z/</value>
</parameter>

The NWS often uses parameters in each <info> block to convey additional information. 

A general statement that summarizes the alert.

<parameter>
  <valueName>NWSheadline</valueName>
  <value>text</value>
</parameter>

Where text is the headline in the traditional NWS alert segment from which the CAP message is derived.  Multiple headlines from the traditional NWS alert segment will generally appear together as one text value often with "... ..." inserted between each headline.  Occasionally when a headline(s) is malformed in the traditional NWS alert segment, the headline (or second or subsequent headlines) will appear at the beginning of the text in the <description> element.

<parameter>
  <valueName>NWSheadline</valueName>
  <value>RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM THIS MORNING TO 9 PM PDT THIS EVENING FOR FAR SOUTHERN NEVADA BELOW 5000 FEET</value>
</parameter>

Example of Multiple Headlines

<parameter>
  <valueName>NWSheadline</valueName>
  <value> WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THIS EVENING TO 11 AM PDT THURSDAY ABOVE 6000 FEET... ...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THIS EVENING TO 11 AM PDT THURSDAY BELOW 6000 FEET</value>
</parameter>

Included in many, but not all, NWS alerts.

Describes whether the tornado is indicated by radar or observed. This is an implied statement of confidence in the evidence that a tornado is occurring.

<parameter>
  <valueName>tornadoDetection</valueName>
  <value>detection</value>
</parameter>

For Tornado Warnings, detection is “RADAR INDICATED” or “OBSERVED”

For Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, the only value for detection is “POSSIBLE”.

<parameter> 
  <valueName>tornadoDetection</valueName> 
  <value>RADAR INDICATED</value> 
</parameter> 

Included with all Tornado Warnings and some Severe Thunderstorm Warnings.

Describes whether the waterspout is observed or possible. This is an implied statement of confidence in the evidence that a waterspout is occurring.

<parameter>
  <valueName>waterspoutDetection</valueName>
  <value>detection</value>
</parameter> 

Where detection is “OBSERVED” or “POSSIBLE”.

<parameter> 
  <valueName>waterspoutDetection</valueName> 
  <value>POSSIBLE</value> 
</parameter> 

Included in some Special Marine Warnings and Marine Weather Statements. 

Impact in terms of damage expected from a tornado.

<parameter>
  <valueName>tornadoDamageThreat</valueName>
  <value>damage</value>
</parameter>

Where damage is “CONSIDERABLE” or “CATASTROPHIC”. 

<parameter> 
  <valueName>tornadoDamageThreat</valueName> 
  <value>CATASTROPHIC</value> 
</parameter> 

Only included in Tornado Warnings when there is credible evidence that the tornado is producing considerable or greater damage.

The category of Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) to be activated.

<parameter>
 <valueName>WEAHandling</valueName>
 <value>Imminent Threat</value>
</parameter>

Where Imminent Threat is the category of WEA to be activated.

<parameter>
 <valueName>WEAHandling</valueName>
 <value>Imminent Threat</value>
</parameter>

Included in CAP messages intended to activate WEA.

An emergency message up to 90 characters in length intended for display on mobile devices as a Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA).

<parameter>
  <valueName>CMAMtext</valueName>
  <value>text</value>
</parameter> 

Where text is an emergency message no longer than 90 characters.

<parameter> 
  <valueName>CMAMtext</valueName> 
  <value> Tornado Warning in this area til 3:45 AM CST. Take shelter now. Check local media. -NWS</value> 
</parameter> 

Included in CAP messages which warn of an imminent threat to life and/or property and are intended to activate WEA.

An emergency message up to 360 characters in length intended for display on mobile devices as a Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA).

<parameter>
  <valueName>CMAMText</valueName>
  <value>text</value>
</parameter> 

Where text is an emergency message no longer than 360 characters.

<parameter> 
  <valueName>CMAMText</valueName> 
  <value>National Weather Service: A FLASH FLOOD WARNING is in effect for this area until 5:45 PM MST. This is a dangerous and life-threatening situation. Do not attempt to travel unless you are fleeing an area subject to flooding or under an evacuation order.</value>
  </value> 
</parameter> 

Included in CAP messages which warn of an imminent threat to life and/or property and are intended to activate WEA.

Anticipated maximum wind gust potential of a storm.

<parameter>
  <valueName>maxWindGust</valueName>
  <value>XXX MPH</value>
</parameter>

Where XXX is the anticipated maximum wind gust potential of the storm. 

<parameter> 
  <valueName>windGust</valueName> 
  <value>80 MPH</value> 
</parameter> 

Included with Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, some Special Marine Warnings, some Severe Weather Statements, and some Marine Weather Statements. 

Maximum hail size expected from the storm.

<parameter>
  <valueName>maxHailSize</valueName>
  <value>X.XX</value>
</parameter> 

Where X.XX is the expected maximum hail size in inches. 

<parameter> 
  <valueName>maxHailSize</valueName> 
  <value>1.75</value> 
</parameter> 

Included with Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, Tornado Warnings, Special Marine Warnings, some Severe Weather Statements and some Marine Weather Statements

Source of information for the wind threat.

<parameter>
 <valueName>windThreat</valueName>
 <value>windThreat</value>
</parameter>

Where windThreat is "RADAR INDICATED" or "OBSERVED"

<parameter>
 <valueName>windThreat</valueName>
 <value>RADAR INDICATED</value>
</parameter>

Included with Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, some Special Marine Warnings, some Severe Weather Statements, and some Marine Weather Statements. 

Source of Information for the hail threat.

<parameter>
  <valueName>hailThreat</valueName>
  <value>hailThreat</value>
</parameter>

Where hailThreat is "RADAR INDICATED" or "OBSERVED"

<parameter>
  <valueName>hailThreat</valueName>
  <value>OBSERVED</value>
</parameter>

Included with Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, some Special Marine Warnings, some Severe Weather Statements, and some Marine Weather Statements. 

Impact in terms of damage expected from a thunderstorm.

<parameter>
  <valueName>thunderstormDamageThreat</valueName>
  <value>damage</value>
</parameter>

Where damage is “CONSIDERABLE” or “DESTRUCTIVE”. 

<parameter>
  <valueName>thunderstormDamageThreat</valueName>
  <value>CONSIDERABLE</value>
</parameter>

Only included in Severe Thunderstorm Warnings when there is credible evidence that the thunderstorm is producing considerable or greater damage.

Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS) Identifier

<parameter>
 <valueName>AWIPSidentifier</valueName>
 <value>NNNXXX</value>
</parameter>

Where:

NNN is the AWIPS product category and XXX is the AWIPS office identifier.  If the XXX is less than 3 characters, the character(s) shall be left justified and filled with blanks to complete the 3-character field. See https://www.weather.gov/tg/awips for more information.

<parameter>
 <valueName>AWIPSidentifier</valueName>
 <value>FFWPSR</value>
</parameter>

Included in every <info> block. 

The position and motion of a hazardous event given in local time. 

<parameter>
  <valueName>eventMotionDescription</valueName>
  <value>YYYY-MM-DDThh:mm:ssXzh:zm...event…dirDEG...spKT...lat,lon [, lat,lon…] </value>
</parameter> 

Where:

• YYYY = Year 
• MM = Month (01-12) 
• DD = Day, 2 digits with leading zeros (01-31) 
• T marks the start of the time section 
• hh = 24-hour format of an hour with leading zeros (00-23) 
• mm = Minutes with leading zeros (00-59) 
• ss = Seconds, with leading zeros (00-59) 
• X = The symbol "+" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone ahead of UTC, or the symbol "-" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone behind UTC.  If the time is in UTC, the symbol "-" will be used.
• zh = Hours of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC
• zm = Minutes of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC
• event = storm
• dirDeg = three-digit direction from which the storm is moving, in degrees from 000 to 359 nonzero direction
• sp = speed of movement of the storm, in knots from 0 to 99 without a leading zero
• lat,lon = coded pair(s) identifying the latitude and longitude of the storm center expressed as a single point (in the case of one pair) or a line (if more than one pair is used) using WGS 84 (see Implementation Notes section of the OASIS CAP Profile document)

<parameter>
  <valueName>eventMotionDescription</valueName>
  <value>2010-08-05T08:46:00-05:00...storm...062DEG...16KT...30.62,-90.82 30.40,-90.91 30.25,-90.79</value>
</parameter>

Means that on August 8, 2010 at 8:46:00 AM Central Daylight Time, the storm was moving from the northeast (to the southwest) at 16 knots. The storm center was located along the line connected by latitude 30.62 longitude -90.82, latitude 30.40 longitude -90.91, and latitude 30.25 longitude -90.79. 
 

Included in NWS CAP messages with the following <eventCode>: 

• TOR (Tornado Warning) 
• SVR (Severe Thunderstorm Warning) 
• SVS (Severe Weather Statement) 
• SMW (Special Marine Warning) 
• MWS (Marine Weather Statement) 
• EWW (Extreme Wind Warning) 

World Meteorological Organization (WMO) identifier

<parameter>
 <valueName>WMOidentifier</valueName>
 <value>T1T2A1A2ii CCCC YYGGgg [BBB]</value>
</parameter>

Where:

T1 is taken from WMO Manual 386 table A. It is an alpha character that
designates the general code form of the contents of the bulletin (Coded or
plain text).

T2 is taken from WMO Manual 386 tables B1 through B6 depending on the
designator T1 in table A. It is an alpha character that designates the
data type.

A1 is taken from WMO Manual 386 tables C1 through C6 depending on
designator T1 in table A (U.S. National practice through C9). It is an
alpha character that designates the geographical area the content of the
bulletin covers.

A2 is taken from WMO Manual 386 tables C1 through C5 depending on
designator T1 in table A (U.S. National practice through C9). It is an
alpha character that designates the geographical area, or may define the
forecast period.

ii is taken from the WMO Manual 386 paragraph 2.3.2.2 definition, or from
table D1 or D2 depending on designator T1 in table A (U.S. National
practice table D3 replaces D2). It is a numeric set of two characters. Go
to the WMO message structure for more details on this group.

CCCC is the identification of the processing center that generated the
bulletin. Commonly centers use alpha character identification designators
from ICAO's Location Indicators Doc 7910/80, but this is not consistent
throughout the centers.

YYGGgg is the day, hour, and minute the bulletin was prepared or the
reporting time of the contained reports in it.

BBB is an optional group of alpha characters

See https://www.weather.gov/tg/awips for more information.

<parameter>
 <valueName>WMOidentifier</valueName>
 <value>WGUS55 KPSR 242050</value>
</parameter>

Included in every CAP message that originates from the NWS. 

EAS Originator code of the NWS as required by the IPAWS CAP profile. 

<parameter>
  <valueName>EAS-ORG</valueName>
  <value>XXX</value>
</parameter>

Where XXX is the Special Area Message Encoding (SAME) organization code.  If the alert was originated by the NWS, then XXX is assigned a value of "WXR".  If the alert was originated by a civil authority,  then XXX is assigned a value of "CIV".

<parameter>
  <valueName>EAS-ORG</valueName>
  <value>WXR</value>
</parameter>

Included in every <info> block. 

Valid Time Event Code (VTEC) of the subject alert message. 

<parameter>
  <valueName>VTEC</valueName>
  <value>VTEC</value>
</parameter> 

Where VTEC is the Valid Time Event Code (VTEC). 

See https://www.weather.gov/vtec for more information about VTEC.

<parameter>
  <valueName>VTEC</valueName>
  <value>/O.CON.KDMX.SV.W.0004.000000T0000Z-110321T1845Z/</value>
</parameter>

Included in many, but not all NWS CAP messages. 

Blocks transmission of the alert across an IPAWS dissemination channel. One or more channels may be blocked.

<parameter>
  <valueName>BLOCKCHANNEL</valueName>
  <value>channel</value>
</parameter> 

Where channel is one of the following values. 
•    “CMAS” – Refers to Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) 
•    “EAS” – Refers to Emergency Alert System 
•    “NWEM” – Refers to Non-Weather Emergency Message 
•    “PUBLIC” – Refers to IPAWS public alert dissemination channel

<parameter> 
  <valueName>BLOCKCHANNEL</valueName> 
  <value>EAS</value> 
</parameter>

<parameter> 
  <valueName>BLOCKCHANNEL</valueName> 
  <value>NWEM</value> 
</parameter>

<parameter> 
  <valueName>BLOCKCHANNEL</valueName> 
  <value>CMAS</value> 
</parameter> 

NWS often blocks CMAS, since WEA is intended only for the most critical alerts. NWS blocks EAS for alerts which are not intended for EAS via the IPAWS EAS channel. NWS always blocks messages to NWEM, since NWEMs push CAP messages back the NWS which would cause an undesirable dissemination loop. NWS never blocks PUBLIC. 

References the most recent message to which the current message refers or replaces. 

<parameter>
  <valueName>expiredReferences</valueName>
  <value>sender,identifier,sent</value>
</parameter>

Where sender, identifier, and sent are the <sender>, <identifier>, and <sent> elements from inactive (i.e., <expires> time has been exceeded) CAP message(s) that this CAP message replaces. When multiple messages are referenced, they are separated by whitespace. 

<parameter>
  <valueName>expiredReferences</valueName>
  <value>w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov,urn:oid:2.49.0.1.840.0.ba78bc1780b07d57760cb3f75be064662620ea40.002.1,2021-02-05T05:58:00-05:00 w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov,urn:oid:2.49.0.1.840.0.ba78bc1780b07d57760cb3f75be064662620ea40.003.1,2021-02-05T05:58:00-05:00 w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov,urn:oid:2.49.0.1.840.0.f2d8079fd63d3ebad3bc90e90e1267ab2747da93.003.2,2021-02-05T04:44:00-05:00</value>
</parameter>

Included whenever the NWS updates or cancels an alert for which a CAP message has been produced and at least one prior CAP message for the alert is inactive (i.e., <expires> time has been exceeded). NWS references all inactive messages impacted by the new message.  Referencing all inactive alert messages ensures any messages that may still be playing incorrectly are properly superseded by the most recent Update or Cancel.  This resolves issues caused by transmission delays and/or lost messages that may result in message chains being broken. 

Impact in terms of damage expected from a flash flood.

<parameter>
  <valueName>flashFloodDamageThreat</valueName>
  <value>damage</value>
</parameter>

Where damage is “CONSIDERABLE” or “CATASTROPHIC”. 

<parameter> 
  <valueName>flashFloodDamageThreat</valueName> 
  <value>CATASTROPHIC</value> 
</parameter> 

Only included in Flash Flood Warnings when there is credible evidence that the flash flood is producing considerable or greater damage.

Describes whether the snow squall is indicated by radar or observed. This is an implied statement of confidence in the evidence that a snow squall is occurring.

<parameter>
  <valueName>snowSquallDetection</valueName>
  <value>detection</value>
</parameter>

Where detection is “RADAR INDICATED” or “OBSERVED”.

<parameter> 
  <valueName>snowSquallDetection</valueName> 
  <value>RADAR INDICATED</value> 
</parameter> 

Included in most Snow Squall Warnings.

Impact of the snow squall.

<parameter>
  <valueName>snowSquallImpact</valueName>
  <value>impact</value>
</parameter>

Where impact is “SIGNIFICANT”. 

<parameter>
  <valueName>snowSquallImpact</valueName>
  <value>SIGNIFICANT</value>
</parameter>

Only included in Snow Squall Warnings when there is credible evidence that the snow squall is of significant impact.

Describes whether the flash flood is indicated by radar or observed. This is an implied statement of confidence in the evidence that a flash flood is occurring.

<parameter>
  <valueName>flashFloodDetection</valueName>
  <value>detection</value>
</parameter>

For Flash Flood Warnings, detection is “RADAR INDICATED”, "RADAR AND GAUGE INDICATED", or “OBSERVED”.

<parameter> 
  <valueName>flashFloodDetection</valueName> 
  <value>RADAR INDICATED</value> 
</parameter>

Included with all Flash Flood Warnings.

The expected end time of the subject event in the alert message. This is the time at which the hazard conditions of the subject event are no longer expected. 

<parameter>
  <valueName>eventEndingTime</valueName>
  <value>YYYY-MM-DDThh:mm:ssXzh:zm</value>
</parameter> 

Where:

• YYYY = Year 
• MM = Month (01-12) 
• DD = Day, 2 digits with leading zeros (01-31) 
• T marks the start of the time section 
• hh = 24-hour format of an hour with leading zeros (00-23) 
• mm = Minutes with leading zeros (00-59) 
• ss = Seconds, with leading zeros (00-59) 
• X = The symbol "+" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone ahead of UTC, or the symbol "-" if the preceding date and time are in a time zone behind UTC.  If the time is in UTC, the symbol "-" will be used.
• zh = Hours of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC
• zm = Minutes of offset from the preceding date and time to UTC, or "00" if the preceding time is in UTC

<parameter>
  <valueName>eventEndingTime</valueName>
  <value>2012-05-30T13:30:00-04:00</value>
</parameter>

Means the hazard conditions of the subject event are no longer expected after 1:30 pm Eastern Daylight Time on May 23, 2012. 

Included in most <info> blocks.  The <eventEndingTime> parameter will not be included for very long duration or open-ended alerts (e.g., hurricanes, tsunamis, some long duration floods, etc.) which are in effect until further notice.