A tornado warning is worse than a tornado watch because it means a tornado is happening or imminent, and you need to take shelter immediately. A watch just means conditions are favorable and you should be prepared.

Quick Scoop

  • Tornado Watch = “Be Ready” : Conditions are right for tornadoes, but none has been confirmed yet.
  • Tornado Warning = “Take Cover NOW” : A tornado has been spotted on radar or by trained observers, or is judged to be imminent.
  • Because a warning means an actual or imminent tornado, it is more severe and more dangerous than a watch.

What each term really means

  • Tornado Watch
    • Weather conditions are favorable for tornado formation over a larger region, sometimes several counties or states.
* It can last for hours and is a signal to review plans, monitor weather, and get ready to move to shelter if things escalate.
  • Tornado Warning
    • A tornado has been detected by radar, or reported by a trained spotter or emergency official, or a storm is showing clear, imminent tornadic signatures.
* Usually covers a smaller area and shorter time (often around 30 minutes), and it means move to your safe place immediately.

Which is worse and how to remember

  • A tornado warning is clearly worse because it signals an immediate threat to life and property; action cannot be delayed.
  • A helpful way many agencies phrase it:
    • Watch = Be prepared.
* Warning = **Take action** now.

What you should do for each

  • During a watch
    • Check weather apps, radio, or TV regularly, secure loose outdoor items, and make sure your shelter area (interior room or basement) is ready.
* Ensure you have flashlights, batteries, water, and basic supplies gathered and easy to grab.
  • During a warning
    • Go immediately to a small, windowless interior room on the lowest floor, or a basement/storm shelter if available.
* Avoid windows, cover your head and neck, and stay sheltered until the warning expires or an all-clear is issued.

Simple one-line takeaway

If you hear “tornado watch,” get ready and stay alert; if you hear “tornado warning,” drop everything and get to shelter right away because that is much more serious.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.