29-05-2025
What is a severe weather watch vs warning?
TYLER, Texas (KETK) – Do you know the difference between a severe weather watch and a warning? East Texans are frequently hit by several tornadoes, severe storms and flash floods, which makes it crucial for residents to understand the difference between severe weather watches and warnings.
According to the National Weather Service, if a severe thunderstorm watch is issued, a storm is likely to hit the area but it is uncertain when. Stay tuned to forecast updates and plan where to take shelter.
A thunderstorm warning is when severe storms have been reported or indicated by the radar, meaning there is imminent danger to life and property. If a warning is issued, residents should take action immediately and move indoors as soon as possible.
A tornado watch is issued to alert residents that tornadoes are possible in and near their county. Residents should begin to prepare for a potential tornado by taking inventory of their supplies and identifying a safe room in their home.
A tornado watch can cover numerous counties and even states.
If a tornado warning is issued, residents are asked to quickly take shelter indoors. A warning is issued after a tornado has been sighted or indicated by the weather radar. People should move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a secure building and avoid any windows.
The national weather service office that serves the county is in charge of issuing the warning.
If a flash flood watch is issued, it means the conditions are favorable for a flash flood to develop in the future. A watch indicates that people need to be prepared for flood waters rising quickly creating hazards in flood prone areas.
Once flooding begins, a flash flood warning is issued and people should begin to take action and get off the roads if possible.
A flash flood warning is issued when flooding is immanent or occurring due torrential rainfall. and people should avoid areas where flooding is occurring.
During any severe weather, people should get inside of a sturdy building or shelter that can protect them from any impending danger.
Once indoors, people should keep their distance from any windows and avoid any electrical equipment. All pets need to be brought indoors and any loose objects around the home should be secured.
All outdoor activities should be postponed until the severe weather has passed.
If caught outdoors during severe weather, people should find a sturdy building to take shelter in or get in their vehicle.
People should have at least two ways to get watch and warning information.
Once severe weather does occur East Texans should be sure to check the KETK Storm Team to get the latest updates
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