What's The Difference Between A WATCH and a WARNING

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

A storm warning can pop up anywhere: TV, cell phone warnings, radio, etc., but do we really understand what these warnings are trying to tell us?

Know the differences between each one so that you can be better prepared if one is issued for your area.

• Tornado Watch: Conditions are ripe for tornadoes within the watch area. Tornadoes associated with hurricanes and tropical storms are typically a very significant cause of death and damage.
• Tornado Warning: A tornado has been spotted visually or on radar. Usually issued for a county. If a tornado WARNING is issued where you live, GET TO THE MIDDLE OF THE LOWEST FLOOR OF A STRONG BUILDING IMMEDIATELY!!! 
• Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Conditions are ripe for severe thunderstorms within the watch area.
• Severe Thunderstorm Warning: There is a severe thunderstorm in or near the warning area. Treat this like a tornado warning!!
• Flash Flood Watch: Flash floods are likely to occur. Be alert for rising water and be prepared to have to move to high ground.
• Flash Flood Warning: Flash floods are occurring. If this happens, get to high ground immediately, and GET AWAY FROM VEHICLES... it only takes 18 inches of water to sweep a car or truck away!
• High Wind Advisory: Windy conditions may occur in the advisory area. This usually makes for unsafe conditions while driving, especially in (but not limited to) large vehicles. Also, avoid boating anywhere in the advisory area.
• High Wind Warning: Very strong winds are expected or are already occurring that may present significant danger. Often issued near tropical storms and hurricanes.

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