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Weather Alert: Tornado Watch vs Tornado Warning
Tornadoes are violent columns of wind capable of frightening devastation. These destructive wind funnels accompany thunderstorms and can appear any time of day, any time of year, and have been reported in all 50 states. Unlike tropical storms and hurricanes, whose paths can be tracked by weather agencies and services, these powerful windstorms strike fast and hard, leaving little time to predict their paths.
Storm Prediction Centers and The National Weather Service utilize two meteorological alerts to keep people informed about potential tornado activity: tornado watches and tornado warnings. Discerning the difference between these two alerts is imperative for making rational, informed decisions in the face of impending disaster.
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Tornado watches are the first sign of trouble.
These alerts are issued by county Storm Prediction Centers. This is the metaphorical yellow light indicating that weather conditions could lead to the formation of a tornado in or near the specified watch area. This watch area is typically a widespread zone that spans counties and, in some cases, multiple states.
When tornado watches go into effect, it is important to:
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Tornado warnings are alerts issued by the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service will issue a tornado warning when there has been a visual sighting of a tornado in a specific area or when one is registered on radar. The coverage area is smaller than that of a tornado watch--typically only a city or smaller county will receive a warning--but when these warnings occur, danger and property damage are imminent.
People in the storm’s path have only between eight to 18 minutes to act. The choices made could be the difference between life and death when these 200-mile- per-hour winds come bearing down.
When tornado warnings are issued, the threat is imminent; immediate action should be taken.
These stunning forces of nature are powerful and deadly. They can level buildings, lift cars and launch debris at anything that crosses their paths. They appear suddenly and take their victims by surprise before vanishing, leaving disaster in their wake.
Understanding the different emergency alerts, who they are issued by, and what to do when they escalate could save your life and the lives of your loved ones. Do not take your safety for granted.
This information is being provided for general informational purposes only. The Auto Club Group does not assume any liability in connection with providing this information.