It’s an important time of year to remind ourselves about what each of the watches and warnings mean so we know what to do in the event of severe weather in our community.  It’s also a good time to review what to do before, during and after a tornado or other severe weather event.

Weather Watches/Warnings Defined

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and near the watch area. A severe thunderstorm contains large damaging hail of 1 inch diameter or larger, and/or damaging winds greater than 58 mph or greater.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - A severe thunderstorm is indicated by Doppler weather radar or sighted by trained weather spotters. A severe thunderstorm contains large damaging hail of ¾ inch in diameter or larger, and/or damaging winds greater than 58 mph or greater.

Tornado Watch - Conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in and near to the watch area.

Things to do when a Tornado Watch is issued:

• Keep alert and watch for changing weather conditions
• Listen to your local news reports & weather updates
• Review your family or business emergency preparedness plan
• Review your disaster kit
• Be ready to seek shelter at a moment’s notice

What to Watch for during a Tornado Watch:

• Dark greenish or orange-gray skies
• Large hail
• Large, dark, low-lying, rotating or funnel-shaped clouds
• A loud roar that is similar to a freight train

Tornado Warning - A tornado has actually been reported by trained weather spotters or has been indicated by radar in the area.

Things to do when a Tornado Warning is issued:

• Take shelter immediately! 
• Listen to your local radio for updates.

• If you are in a building:

  Go to a pre-designated shelter area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the buildings lowest level. If you don't have a basement, take shelter in the center of an interior room on the lowest level, such as a bathroom, closet or interior hallway that is away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls.

• If you are in a vehicle, trailer or mobile home:

  Get out immediately and go to a nearby sturdy building or storm shelter and seek shelter on its lowest floor.

• If you are outside without nearby shelter:

  Lie down in a ditch, ravine, or depression nearby and cover your head with your hands.

What not to do during a tornado:

• Do not stay in a Mobile home as they offer very little protection from tornadoes.
• Do not open the windows in your home or business.
• Do not try to outrun a tornado in a car.
• Do not get under a highway overpass or bridge as you will be exposing yourself to flying debris and stronger winds.