Weather alerts provide timely information about potential or occurring hazardous conditions. Understanding the distinctions between alert types allows individuals to take appropriate actions, safeguarding lives and property.
What a Watch Signifies
A “watch” indicates conditions are favorable for a hazardous weather event to occur, but it is not yet happening. It signifies a potential threat, providing lead time for individuals to prepare. For instance, a severe thunderstorm watch means thunderstorms producing large hail (one inch or larger) or damaging winds (58 mph or higher) are possible. A tornado watch suggests tornadoes could form within the watch area.
When a watch is issued, the general recommendation is to stay informed and prepare. This involves monitoring local news or NOAA Weather Radio for updates and reviewing family emergency plans. It is a good time to gather emergency supplies, secure outdoor objects that could be affected by strong winds, and ensure that a safe shelter location is identified. The purpose of a watch is to give people time to think about what steps they can take should the threat materialize.
What a Warning Signifies
In contrast, a “warning” means a hazardous weather event is either imminent or already occurring in a specific location. This alert signifies an immediate threat to life and property, demanding prompt protective action. For example, a severe thunderstorm warning is issued when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. A tornado warning indicates that a tornado has been sighted or detected by radar, posing a direct and immediate danger. Flood warnings are issued when flooding is occurring or about to occur, often requiring people to move to higher ground.
Upon receiving a warning, immediate action is necessary to protect oneself and others. For a tornado warning, this means seeking shelter immediately in a basement, safe room, or an interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building, away from windows. During a severe thunderstorm warning, it is advised to go indoors, stay away from windows, and avoid electrical equipment and plumbing. For a flood warning, individuals should find safe shelter right away and never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters, as even six inches of moving water can be dangerous. If instructed to evacuate, doing so promptly is critical.
Distinguishing Between Alerts and Taking Action
The fundamental difference between a weather watch and a warning lies in immediacy and the required response. A watch communicates a potential threat, indicating conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop. It serves as a heads-up, prompting preparedness and monitoring. This period allows for proactive measures, such as securing outdoor items or planning evacuation routes, without immediate, life-saving action.
Conversely, a warning signifies the hazardous weather event is happening or about to happen, posing immediate danger. It is an urgent call to action, demanding immediate protective measures. When a warning is issued, there is no time for extensive preparation; the priority shifts to seeking shelter or evacuating. For example, a tornado watch means tornadoes are possible, so one should be prepared to act quickly, while a tornado warning means a tornado is near, and immediate movement to a safe location is required. This distinction between “be prepared” (watch) and “take action now” (warning) is critical for effective response to hazardous weather conditions.