Knowing The Difference Between A Weather Watch And Warning Is Key

With the Spring storm season ramping up across Texas we tend to see the potential for severe weather this time of year to move through Tyler and Longview at least once if not twice or more during the week. Cold fronts from the Pacific Northwest, Canada, and off the Mexican west coast can wreak havoc upon the Piney Woods of East Texas.

Local, regional, and national meteorologists constantly monitor the weather and give us predictions on what could happen. The Storm Prediction Center in Norman, OK will issue threat levels according to predicted weather conditions along with watches when there is the potential for severe weather to break out in East Texas.

During the potential severe weather event, The National Weather Service out of Ft. Worth and Shreveport will issue warnings for East Texas when the weather reaches established severe limits.

What is the difference between a weather watch and a weather warning?

Watch means:

Weather conditions are favorable for the development of severe weather. Conditions are just right for the formation of severe weather events such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, etc., but these events have not yet occurred. During a watch, people should stay informed about weather updates and be prepared to take action if a warning is issued.

Essentially, a watch means "be prepared."

Warning means:

A warning is issued when severe weather is imminent or already occurring in the warned area. Warnings are issued when the threat is more certain and immediate, and there is a higher likelihood of significant impacts. When a warning is issued, it means that the hazardous weather event is expected to happen soon or is already happening, and people in the warned area should take immediate action to protect themselves and their property.

Essentially, a warning means "take action now to protect yourself and your property."

Severe Weather Watches And Warning Cover All Kinds Of Weather Conditions

Thunderstorms, tornados, and flash flood watches and warnings are the most common here in East Texas during the springtime. However, watches and warnings exist for winter storms, hurricanes, wind chill, tropical storms, rivers, fires, freeze, high winds, excessive heat, ice, and fire weather too.

Knowing the difference can help save on property damage and potentially your life. Remember, a warning means 'take action now to protect yourself and your property', whereas a watch means 'be prepared' for the potential for severe weather.

When a storm front is expected to move into East Texas, the best thing to do is remain calm, weather aware, and be prepared.