A warning is worse than a watch. A watch means conditions are favorable and you should be ready; a warning means the hazard is happening or imminent, and you need to take action now.

Simple rule

  • Watch = be prepared.
  • Warning = act immediately.

Example

If there’s a tornado watch, you should stay alert and review your safety plan. If there’s a tornado warning, you should move to shelter right away.

Weather meaning

Weather agencies use watches when the risk has increased but timing or location is still uncertain, and warnings when conditions threaten life or property or the event is already occurring.