Somewhat depends on location
In general, look to the west to see what's coming.
As for winds and rough water, it depends on your location in regards to 'fetch'. The further the wind can blow on the water unimpeded (fetch) the bigger the waves will build. A strong (16mph +) wind from the NW may not be so bad in coves and bays in the northern part of the lake, but those same winds, traveling the 20+ miles down the Broads will put up some big rollers down the Wolfboro/Rattlesnake Island end of the lake (and of course, visa versa).
Duration of wind is also an important factor. 15 mph winds blowing for a couple hours will not do much but make some chop and spray. Those same 15 mph winds blowing for 10 or 12 hours will build some much larger waves.
Check the weather for upcoming storm conditions, check what they're saying (and your seeing) for wind direction, speed, and duration. From that information, decide where you want to venture on the lake, if at all. If it's windy, stay on the lee (wind protected) side of the shoreline and islands for the smoothest ride.
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