What is the difference between a storm watch and warning?
North Carolina is still in the middle of hurricane season, and many counties have seen their fair share of weather advisories. From flood watches to tornado warnings, it is important to understand what the advisories mean so you can be better prepared for severe storms in your area.
The National Weather Service (NWS) located in Norman, Oklahoma is responsible for issuing warnings as severe weather threatens across the country. The WRAL Severe Weather team receives these alerts in three different ways:
- Alerts will automatically pop up on weather alert maps and graphics. WRAL.com has interactive maps that show when and where alerts are issued in North Carolina.
- Weather alerts are faxed directly to the Weather Center.
- NWS sends up-to-date alerts via a weather chat that is constantly being updated.
The NWS also sends the same alerts to other local news station, so the information broadcasted is the same as the alert and is less confusing than station issuing their own alerts.
The difference between weather watches and warnings
A watch means that the conditions within the environment have the potential for severe weather. Watches can become warnings if conditions worsen.
A warning means that the severe weather conditions are in effect. Severe weather is either occurring in the warned area or it is likely to occur.
According to the NWS, severe weather is defined as storms that produce a tornado or have winds of at least 58 mph and/or hail at least 1 inch in diameter. When these conditions occur, often a warning is issued. Severe thunderstorm watches or warnings are most likely to occur in Central NC, along with tornado watches and possibly flood watches.
Winter weather is typically the time when alerts surrounding snow watches. Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes seen as year-round weather, especially between March through July.
What to do during a watch or warning?
When a weather watch is issued in your area, it is important to take it seriously because it has the potential to become dangerous. During this stage you should:
- Check the WRAL Weather app for forecast updates and alerts
- Monitor weather conditions around you
- Have plan in place, in case a warning is issued
