Tornado Strong Logo

Tornado Watch vs. Warning

Know the difference and what to do.

Tornado Watch vs. Warning

Know the difference and what to do.

Tornado Strong Logo

When it comes to tornadoes, the difference between a watch and a warning could mean your life. Follows these tips from the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) and the National Weather Service to become #TornadoStrong.

Download Fact Sheet

  • A tornado watch means the weather conditions for tornadoes are favorable during the next few hours. A watch usually covers a large area of several cities, counties, and sometimes even multiple states.
  • The National Weather Service issues a tornado warning when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. A warning means that it is time to take action because there is imminent danger to life and property.

What should I do if I am under a tornado watch?

  • Locate your family members and pets.
  • Review your family disaster plan, including where you will take shelter.
  • Monitor your NOAA Weather Radio, smartphone apps, and local news for updates.
  • Stay aware of changing weather conditions. Remember, even if a tornado does not form, severe thunderstorms can pose a safety risk too.
  • Make sure your emergency supplies such as flashlights, water, and batteries are accessible.
  • Stay away from windows and keep them closed.

What should I do if I am under a tornado warning?

IF YOU’RE INSIDE:

  • Take shelter IMMEDIATELY in an ICC 500 certified tornado shelter or a safe room constructed using FEMA P-320 guidance.
  • If you do not have a certified shelter or FEMA safe room, immediately go to your safest space, such as a windowless interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
  • Cover yourself with a mattress, sleeping bag, or another protective blanket. Wear a bike helmet for additional protection.
  • If you are not at home or cannot get to your safe room or safe space, protect yourself from flying debris under heavy furniture, such as a sturdy table, and stay clear of windows and doors, including garage doors.
  • Monitor your NOAA Weather Radio and Alerting App to get updates.
  • DO NOT open or crack the windows in your home.

IF YOU’RE OUTSIDE:

  • If you can safely get to a sturdy building, then do so immediately.
  • DO NOT try to outrun a tornado with a vehicle.
  • DO NOT get under an overpass or bridge.  You are safer in a low, flat location.
  • If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms, cover your body with a coat or blanket, or abandon your car and seek shelter in a low-lying area such as a ditch or ravine.

 

What should I do after a tornado?

  • Keep your family together and wait for emergency personnel to arrive.
  • Stay away from power lines and puddles as they may hide electrified wires.
  • Watch your step to avoid broken glass, nails, and other sharp objects.
  • Stay out of any heavily damaged houses or buildings; they could collapse at any time.
  • DO NOT use matches or lighters in case of leaking natural gas pipes or fuel tanks nearby.
  • Remain calm and alert. Listen for information and instructions from emergency crews or local officials.