A tornado watch means that weather conditions in and around the watch area are going to deteriorate and tornado activity is possible. Keep your radio, or TV tuned to a local station for updates. A tornado warning means that there are indications of a tornado on … A tornado watch gets issued when weather conditions are favorable for the formation of tornadoes, which most often occurs during strong thunderstorms. Here's a simple review of the different types of tornado advisories. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings. A “Tornado Warning” means there is a distinct and immediate threat of a tornado. Seek shelter in your pre-designated safe zone immediately. Clouds swirling in the sky or creating shallow funnels are signs that a tornado may form. Grab your mobile devices and a portable backup battery charger. It is imperative to have an alternative energy source, such as batteries, in case the power goes out. Tornado watch: the national weather service has decided that in the hours specified in the watch, conditions may become possible for a tornado to develop. The National Weather Service will send these out when wind conditions and atmospheric conditions are typical for creating a tornado, big or small. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states. Seek shelter immediately. This is a … When a tornado watch gets issued: Have a radio or TV nearby so you can receive further updates in a timely manner. Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. If shelter is unavailable, lie on a low, flat area of ground with your arms over your head. These storms have the potential to produce damaging winds, large hail or a tornado. Tornado Watch: A tornado watch is issued when conditions are favorable for any storms that could turn dangerous. It means that conditions are favorable for a potential tornado. This alert indicates that a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. In 2017, residents of Salisbury, Maryland were surprised to hear alarming news of a Tornado Watch. When a watch is issued in your area, keep abreast of the latest information by monitoring television, radio, and NOAA weather radio. When understanding what a tornado warning vs watch is, a tornado warning always means the tornado has been identified. Your email address will not be published. Home » Weather Safety & Disaster Planning » What to Do during a Tornado Watch or Warning. According to the National Weather Service, a tornado watch means there is the possibility of a tornado happening, but that does not mean there is a tornado occurring at the time. William Staples Insurance And Financial Services, Inc., is not affiliated with The Leaders Group, Inc. Insurance Disclaimer: This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy in any state the representative is not securities registered and insurance licensed in. Define Tornado Watch. After a tornado warning gets issued: If you are operating a business with employees, you are responsible for their safety. When the FLETC announces a Tornado Warning signal, a fast siren wail is sounded, followed by a verbal announcement that there is a Tornado Warning. If you are indoors, go to a windowless room on the lowest level of your home, a basement if possible. The center analyzes conditions in storm-prone areas and determines whether tornado activity is likely. Photo credits: ©iStock.com/Tokarsky, carroteater. A tornado watch gets issued when weather conditions are favorable for the formation of tornadoes, which most often occurs during strong thunderstorms. A Tornado Watch means tornadoes are possible inside a thunderstorm. Do you know what your insurance covers in the event of a natural disaster like a tornado? A tornado "watch" is issued when tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. The Storms Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma issues tornado watches. A watch is then issued. A warning is less severe and is issued when there is the possibility of a tornado … A watch can be issued hours before a tornado shows up, so make good use of the time you're given to prepare. Sure enough, a tornado with winds gusting up to 105 MPH ripped through the city and caused havoc. Stay alert for sirens, but do not leave your safe zone or shelter until you receive a signal that the warning is lifted. A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for the formation of tornadoes. 26 W Dry Creek Circle, Suite 800, Littleton, CO 80120, 303-797-9080. If a tornado is spotted, a warning would be issued. 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