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Difference Between a Tornado Watch and Warning

According to the Glossary of Meteorology, a tornado is a violently rotating air column beneath or descending from a cumuliform cloud that may or may not be visible as a funnel cloud. Tornado warnings and watches are issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). When there is the potential for a tornado, a watch or warning is issued. A tornado watch and a tornado warning require different safety precautions.

  1. Tornado Watch

    • A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms to produce tornadoes in an area. A watch will last from four to eight hours. A tornado watch is always accompanied by a severe thunderstorm watch. Although a tornado watch is less serious than a tornado warning, you should remain vigilant in case conditions worsen. Tune in to local TV news and radio stations to find the latest weather updates.

    Response to a Tornado Watch

    • A tornado watch does not mean that a tornado will form, only that conditions are favorable for the formation of a tornado. You should continue with your normal activities. However, when a tornado watch is issued, be alert and prepared to seek shelter in the event of serious weather conditions.

    Tornado Warning

    • A tornado warning is issued when the threat of a tornado is imminent. The tornado has either been spotted in the area or indicated on Doppler radar. Tornado warnings can be issued without a tornado watch being in effect and last for around 30 minutes. When a tornado warning is issued, the location of the tornado and its path will be indicated.

    Response to a Tornado Warning

    • Seek shelter immediately when a tornado warning is issued. The warning may be accompanied by sirens to alert you that a tornado has been spotted. If you are inside, seek cover in the lowest level of your home or an interior room, such as a bathroom or closet. Stay away from windows and cover yourself to avoid falling debris. If you are in a car, try to find shelter in a building or lie face-down on the ground with your hands covering your head.

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