What is a tornado watch? Tornado warning? Here's a look at the differences
Tornadoes can develop at any time, and while they're more commonly found in the central plains and southeastern United States, they have occurred in every state, according to the NWS. The violent weather phenomena is capable of destroying buildings and hurling objects like deadly missiles.
So, when the National Weather Service issues its alerts, what do they mean? When is it time to be aware and time to take action and shelter from a storm?
What is a tornado watch?
Tornado watches are alerts to stay prepared and be ready to act, according to the NWS. They mean that tornadoes are possible and weather conditions "favor thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes."
Tornado watches are usually issued at least an hour in advance of anticipated risky weather and up to eight hours before so people can make a plan to act in case a tornado is spotted and a warning is issued, according to a USA Today report.
Live: Iowa tornado watches and updates as state prepares for severe weather
What is a tornado warning?
A warning means imminent danger, according to the NWS. A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.
When a tornado warning is issued, the NWS recommends taking immediate action and moving to the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows. If you're in a car or mobile home, find the closest substantial shelter you can get to.
More: Tornado safety: What to do when a watch or warning is issued depends on where you are
Is a tornado warning or watch more dangerous?
A tornado warning is more severe than a watch, according to the NWS. When a warning is issued, there is imminent danger and a tornado was spotted, or imminent. A watch indicates that tornadoes are possible within an area.
NWS Albuquerque put it well: If there's a watch, it's like we have the ingredients to make tacos, but if there's a warning we are having the tacos right now.
Northern & Central New Mexico: Let’s TACO about the difference between a watch & a warning. 🌮🌮
Kidding aside, a watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather/flooding to develop while a warning means severe weather/flooding is occurring! Stay weather alert. #NMwx pic.twitter.com/GHZffUUJRm— NWS Albuquerque (@NWSAlbuquerque) June 29, 2021
Check for watches and warnings: See weather warnings, watches and advisories on this map
Tornado history in Iowa: See the database of tornadoes in Iowa since 1950
USA Today reports contributed to this article.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Tornado watch vs. warning: The difference, which is more severe
