Tornado Watch & Severe Weather

 
By EMS Captain Liz Murphy
March 16, 2026
 

As we enter the season of more severe thunderstorms and other weather events, including tornadoes, we remind our community about the difference between a “WATCH” and a “WARNING.”

A WATCH is issued when the risk of a hazardous weather event has increased significantly, but the timing or location is still uncertain.

A WARNING means a hazardous weather event is occurring, is imminent, or is likely to happen.

For tornadoes specifically, understanding the difference between a Tornado Watch and Tornado Warning is important. A Tornado Watch indicates conditions are favorable for a tornado to develop, while a Tornado Warning means a tornado has been detected or is very likely.

If you would like more information on how to identify and remember the difference between a watch and a warning, please visit the National Weather Service website.

 
Hyperlinks: National Weather Service