Iowa Tornado watch

What Is The Difference Between a Watch and a Warning?

With the severe weather season underway, now is a good time to go over the difference between a watch vs. a warning.

What is a severe thunderstorm watch?

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued when severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. It does not mean that they will occur. It only means they are possible.

Severe thunderstorms are defined as follows:
1) Winds of 58 mph or higher AND/OR
2) Hail 1 inch in diameter or larger.

What is a severe thunderstorm warning?

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued when severe thunderstorms are occurring or imminent in the warning area.
Severe thunderstorms are defined as follows:

1) Winds of 58 mph or higher AND/OR
2) Hail 1 inch in diameter or larger.

What is a tornado watch?

A Tornado Watch is issued when severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. It does not mean that they will occur. It only means they are possible.

Severe thunderstorms are defined as follows:
1) Winds of 58 mph or higher AND/OR
2) Hail 1 inch in diameter or larger.

What is a tornado warning?

A Tornado Warning is issued when a tornado is imminent. When a tornado warning is issued, seek safe shelter immediately.

Now that you know the difference between a watch vs. a warning, make sure you have a way to receive alerts for severe weather in your area. You can follow your local National Weather Service office.