What is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning? What should you do?

Monday, March 16 is designated as a First Alert Weather Day due to the potential for severe storms and tornadoes. Severe weather can develop quickly, especially when powerful storm systems move through a region. On Monday, March 16, meteorologists warned that strong to severe thunderstorms could sweep across the area as a cold front moves in.

The storms are expected in two waves, one during the mid-morning hours and another line arriving in the early afternoon. Weather officials say damaging wind gusts and isolated tornadoes are possible during these storms.

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Here's the difference between a tornado watch and warning

Due to the threat, understanding severe weather alerts, especially the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning, can make a big difference in staying safe. The information is sourced from multiple outlets like The Fayetteville Observer, Delaware Online, 12On Your Side, and WCBD.

What does a tornado watch mean?

Weather alerts can sometimes seem confusing, but the difference between a watch and a warning is important.

A watch is issued when atmospheric conditions could support severe weather. That means storms capable of producing large hail, damaging winds or tornadoes may develop.

Meteorologists may issue a severe thunderstorm watch when storms could produce hail of one inch or larger or wind gusts of 58 mph or stronger.

A tornado watch is issued when conditions could allow tornadoes to form across a broad region. Watches typically cover large areas and may remain in effect for several hours. In some cases, skies may even appear calm when a watch is active.

But meteorologists emphasize that the atmosphere can change quickly, which is why watches are meant to alert people to stay aware of developing conditions.

As forecasters explain, a watch means weather experts are monitoring the situation closely because conditions could worsen quickly.


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When does a tornado warning become dangerous?

Warnings are far more urgent than watches. A severe thunderstorm warning is issued when a storm is already producing, or is capable of producing, damaging winds or large hail in a specific location.

A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been spotted or when weather radar strongly indicates one may be forming.

Warnings usually apply to smaller areas such as counties or cities, and they signal that dangerous weather is happening or about to happen.

When a warning is issued, people should take action immediately. The National Weather Service also uses an even more serious alert called a tornado emergency.

This alert is issued when a violent tornado has touched down and is causing catastrophic damage, posing a severe threat to life and property.

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How can you stay safe during severe storms?

Safety officials recommend taking immediate shelter if severe storms approach.

During a severe thunderstorm, people should move inside a sturdy building such as a home or other substantial structure and stay away from windows.

Those driving during a storm should continue cautiously and try to find a safe place to wait out the storm.

If someone is outside, they should seek shelter right away. Taking cover under a tree is dangerous because trees can fall and they increase the risk of lightning strikes.

Anyone near water, including at a beach or pool, should leave the water and move to a safer location.

If a tornado warning is issued, the safest place in a home is usually a basement.

However, many homes do not have basements. In that case, the safest option is to move to a small interior room on the lowest floor, such as a hallway, bathroom or closet.

People should stay away from windows and protect their head using pillows, blankets or even a helmet if available.

At work or school, individuals should follow designated tornado shelter plans and avoid large open areas such as gyms, cafeterias or auditoriums.

If someone is outdoors when a tornado warning is issued, the best option is to move into a sturdy building.

Vehicles and mobile homes do not provide adequate protection. If shelter is not available, people may need to lie low in a ditch or ravine to protect themselves from flying debris.

Emergency officials also recommend reviewing family safety plans before severe weather strikes so everyone knows where to go if conditions suddenly become dangerous.

With storms expected Monday, knowing the difference between a watch and a warning could help people react quickly and stay safe.

Remain vigilant on Monday and be ready to take refuge due to potential severe weather advisories and alerts from the National Weather Service. Amid intermittent showers, storms, and squalls, your First Alert Forecast indicates turbulent conditions, with southwest winds frequently reaching to 30, 40, and 50 mph, as per a report by WECT 6 News.

Delaware is anticipated to see severe weather on the afternoon of March 16, including storms that may produce heavy rainfall, hail, gusts of 70 mph, and potentially tornadoes.

Cumberland County and other regions of central North Carolina are subject to a tornado watch until 2 p.m. on Monday, and the area faces a Level 4 severe weather threat.

The National Weather Service in Raleigh reported a 10% to 15% probability of tornadoes in the region, including the potential for large tornadoes rated EF-2 or higher. The peak risk for Cumberland County is anticipated between noon and 8 p.m, as per a report by The Fayetteville Observer.

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FAQs

What does a tornado watch mean?
A tornado watch means weather conditions could allow tornadoes to form, so people should stay alert and prepared.

What should you do during a tornado warning?
Seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building and move to an interior room on the lowest floor away from windows.