What’s the difference between a KC tornado watch and a tornado warning? What to know
If a tornado watch is issued in your area, the weather service says to be prepared and ready to act if the next level, a warning, is issued or if you suspect a tornado is approaching.
A tornado watch is issued by the Storm Prediction Center for counties where tornadoes may occur. A tornado watch’s area is large and can cover numerous counties and even cross into other states.
While a tornado watch and a tornado warning can be similar, they are very different. Here’s what you need to know and how to distinguishbetween them .
What’s the difference?
It’s easy to confuse the difference between watches and warnings when it comes to severe weather like thunderstorms and tornadoes.
When the National Weather Service issues a watch, it means to be prepared for the severe weather. Warnings, on the other hand, mean to take action because severe weather has either been reported by spotters or indicated by radar.
What should you do under a tornado warning?
If a tornado warning is issued, that means severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar, according to the weather service. There is imminent danger to life and property and people should take shelter, the weather service said.
During tornado warnings issued by the National Weather Service, people are urged to move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
“Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris,” the weather service said during a recent warning.
Warnings typically cover much smaller areas.
The Star’s Bob Cronkleton contributed to this report.
This story was originally published April 16, 2024 at 11:44 AM.
