Watches vs. Warnings...
A Watch means that conditions are favorable for tornadoes and/or severe thunderstorms. When a watch is issued it is basically giving you a heads up that severe weather is possible in about a 6-9 hour time period.
A Warning means that severe thunderstorms or tornadoes are occurring or imminent. Most of the time we either detect a tornado or severe thunderstorm on the radar before it causes damage. But we also issue warnings if we get a storm report. When a warning is issued, this is when you need to take shelter and protect yourself. Warnings may give you several minutes to seek shelter and we certainly have been better at issuing warnings before the event happens. However, if a warning is issued don't wait... seek shelter immediately and keep a television or radio on so you can listen for an all clear signal.
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