what is the difference between a tornado warning and tornado watch
The difference between a tornado warning and tornado watch is more than just the colors that represent them in the corner of a television screen. Knowing when the possibility of a tornado exists and when one is imminent will help keep you and your family safer.
Tornado Warning. A tornado warning means that a tornado is imminent, and you need to immediately seek shelter to protect yourself. Tornado warnings are issued when meteorologists detect strong rotation in a thunderstorm on radar â which indicates that a tornado is likely on the ground â or when spotters actually see a tornado on the ground.
Tornado watch. An example of a tornado watch for parts of Kansas and Nebraska, issued by the Storm Prediction Center on May 5, 2007. A tornado watch (SAME code: TOA) is issued when weather conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms called a Supercell that are capable of producing tornadoes. A tornado watch therefore implies that it is also a severe thunderstorm watch.