Weather awareness: Watch versus warning

It’s Severe Weather Awareness Week and there is no better time than now to refresh your memory on the difference between a watch and warning.

The National Weather Service is responsible for issuing all weather alerts, but for different reason. A watch is issued when there is the potential for a severe weather event. At this time, it’s best to be cautious and aware that there is a possibility of a severe weather event to occur.

A warning on the other hand, is issued when the severe weather is happening, or about to happen. The National Weather Service’s decision to issue a warning is based on either trained storm spotter knowledge or radar indication. When a warning is issued, it’s best to take action right away; seek shelter or get into your safe place.