Prepare in a Year - Watch v. Warning
- admin774715
- Jan 17
- 1 min read
The National Weather Service and other services like PC Alert often issue watches and warnings to alert residents of severe weather and when to seek shelter. So, what is the difference?
Types of Weather Alerts
• Thunderstorm
• Freeze
• Dense Fog
• High Wind/Gale
• Winter Storm
• Coastal Flood
• Flash Floods
• Tornado
• Excessive Heat
• Fire Weather/Red Flag[…]
Example
Severe Thunderstorm Watch vs. Warning:
If a weather alert service issues a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, then the atmosphere is favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for information.
If a weather alert service issues a Severe Thunderstorm Warning, then severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm.
A common metaphor used to better understand the difference between Watch and Warning is the “Taco Method.”
Taco Watch
GET READY: Everything you need to make tacos is on the table.
Taco Warning
GET TO THE TABLE: Tacos have arrived!
Download a Taco Watch Coloring Page Below!
So now that we have a good idea of the difference between a Watch and a Warning, we can break it down even further and include Advisory.
Watch: Have a Plan of Action and Use It!
Advisory: Use Caution.
Warning: Take Protective Action.
Sign up for PC ALERT today by visiting piercecountywa.gov, call 253-798-6595 or text PCALERT to 888-777.
Credit: fema.gov, weather.gov
Comments