Differences Between a Tornado Watch & Warning

Tornadoes are sporadic and unpredictable in their course of travel, and they can be extremely destructive. According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, more than 800 tornadoes are reported in the United States each year, causing 80 deaths and 1,500 injuries on average. That's why it's important for people to know the differences between a tornado watch and a tornado warning and what to do in these situations, especially if they live in the Great Plains.

Watches vs. Warnings

• Compared to a warning, a tornado watch is vague. A tornado watch simply indicates that weather conditions could become ideal to create a tornado. For this reason, it isn't uncommon for tornado watches to be issued for days at a time in "Tornado Alley," an area of the United States consisting of generally flat land. Conversely, tornado warnings are issued when an actual twister has touched down in a specific area. Warning sirens are typically sounded by local communities when tornado warnings are issued.

Weather Conditions

• Severe weather is often created when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold front. Tornadoes are commonly created by these types of conditions. In the event of a tornado watch, it's important for people to simply pay attention to weather reports on when potentially severe weather could occur. Conditions such as hail, heavy thunder and lightning are things to monitor in these situations, as they often precede tornado touchdowns.

What To Do

• In the case of a tornado watch, its a good idea to stay up to date with local weather reports as meteorologists monitor potentially serious conditions. But when you hear the tornado warning sirens go off, seek cover immediately. According to Emergency Planning Experts, the best places to take shelter in the home are basements and interior, windowless rooms. Drivers should seek cover either in a roadside ditch or underneath a highway overpass.

What To Have Handy

• Just because a tornado warning is issued for an area doesn't necessarily mean that there will be damage to the entire area. Tornadoes are sporadic and able to change direction, carving their own path of destruction. Because of their unpredictability, when a warning is issued, it's a good idea to have some common household items on hand when seeking cover. Items like a flashlight can aid people if power is lost. Additionally, having a radio handy to tune in to news reports is important for knowing when it's safe to leave sheltered areas.