The Simple Rule
- Watch = Be aware. Conditions are favourable for severe weather. Prepare.
- Warning = Take action. Severe weather is happening or about to happen. Act now.
Watch — Time to Prepare
A watch is issued hours before severe weather is expected. It covers a large area. This is your time to:
- Review your emergency plan
- Charge devices
- Gather supplies (water, torch, medications)
- Monitor forecasts for updates
- Know where your shelter is
Warning — Time to Act
A warning means severe weather has been detected on radar or reported by observers. It covers a smaller, more specific area. You should:
- Move to your safe place immediately
- Stay away from windows
- Follow official instructions
- Do not drive through flooded roads
Types of Alerts
| Event | Watch | Warning |
|---|---|---|
| Thunderstorm | Conditions favour storms | Severe storm detected |
| Tornado | Tornadoes possible in area | Tornado spotted or on radar |
| Hurricane | Hurricane may affect area in 48h | Hurricane expected in 36h |
| Flood | Flooding possible | Flooding occurring or imminent |
| Winter storm | Heavy snow/ice possible | Heavy snow/ice expected |
Advisory vs Watch vs Warning
An advisory sits below a watch — it means weather may cause inconvenience (e.g., light snow making roads slippery) but is not life-threatening.
Where to Get Alerts
- National weather services push alerts through phone emergency systems
- Weather apps with notification features
- NOAA Weather Radio (USA)
- Local radio and TV stations
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