Storm Watches Vs. Warning

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO storm ready image

Severe weather season is underway so it’s a good time to review the difference between tornado and severe thunderstorm watches and warnings.  A WATCH means that the potential exists for severe thunderstorms or tornadoes to develop.  A tornado watch does not mean that a tornado has been seen, it just means that conditions are favorable for one to develop.  The same applies to a thunderstorm watch.  Conditions are conducive for the development of severe weather.  When watches are issued there is no immediate action for you to take, but do keep up to date on the current weather situation.

WARNINGS on the other hand need to be taken seriously and demand action.  A severe thunderstorm warning indicated that severe weather is imminent in your area or already happening.  Severe refers to wind gusts exceeding 58 mph and hail greater than 1” in diameter.  A tornado warning means that a tornado has been indicated by radar or spotted by a human observer.  Take cover immediately when a tornado warning is issued for your area as the likelihood of you beingdirectly impacted by a tornado is at a heightened risk.

With this knowledge of watches and warnings, you will be better prepared the next time severe weather threatens your area.  Remember too that SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help the Sioux Falls area during severe weather events if you should have any damage.  We provide services from start to finish to get you and your family back to pre-storm condition.