In today’s world, we live in a constant state of danger due to various natural calamities, including floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes. The numerous lives lost every year due to these disasters highlight the need for proper warning and preventative measures. When disasters strike, we rely on several methods of prevention and evacuation measures such as watch and warning notifications. But which is worse: a watch or a warning? Let’s dive in and find out here!
The Purpose of a Watch
A watch is issued by the National Weather Service to alert people to the possibility of severe weather conditions. This is usually a precautionary measure to make people aware that there is a possibility of danger in the near future. It is issued 12 to 36 hours before a predicted occurrence to allow people enough time to prepare for what’s coming.
The primary purpose of a watch is to create awareness in people’s minds so that they can take the necessary action to prepare beforehand. This helps to minimize the risks associated with the disaster, and people can take measures such as evacuating the area, stocking necessary supplies and preparing a safety kit, securing and reinforcing their homes and vehicles.
The Characteristics of a Watch
A watch is classified into two types: a tornado watch and a severe thunderstorm watch. The characteristics of a watch vary depending on the type issued, but all watches share the following traits:
- A watch is issued when severe weather conditions are expected to develop within the designated watch area within the next 12 to 36 hours.
- The National Weather Service issues the watch.
- A watch does not mean that a particular weather event will happen but that conditions are present to create the event.
- A watch area is much larger than a warning area, and a watch may be issued for several counties or states.
- A watch does not require immediate action, but it is necessary to keep an eye on the weather pattern to avoid any danger.
The Purpose of a Warning
A warning is issued by the National Weather Service when severe weather conditions are already happening or are imminent. This is a call to take immediate action and is issued when the weather event is expected to occur within the next 24 hours. The primary purpose of a warning is to take immediate action to save lives and secure resources.
A warning is issued when there is a high likelihood of severe weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, flash floods, and thunderstorms. A warning can save many lives by alerting people to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and evacuate if necessary.
The Characteristics of a Warning
The characteristics of a warning differ from that of a watch as a warning is issued when a significant weather event is happening or when it is expected to occur. Here are the primary characteristics of a warning:
- A warning is issued when severe weather conditions are already occurring, or they are imminent.
- A warning is issued by the National Weather Service.
- A warning means that the weather event will happen, and people need to take immediate action to stay safe.
- The warning area is relatively smaller than a watch area, and it is usually focused on the most affected areas.
- A warning requires immediate action, and people need to move to the nearest shelter or evacuate if necessary.
The Differences Between a Watch and a Warning
The primary difference between a watch and a warning is that a watch is issued before the occurrence of a disaster while a warning is issued when the weather event is imminent. A watch is designed to create awareness and initiate the preparation needed to protect lives and property.
On the other hand, a warning is issued when the weather event is more likely to occur or when it is already happening. A warning is a call to action, and people need to take immediate measures to stay safe.
| Watch | Warning |
|---|---|
| Precautionary measure | Call to action |
| Issued 12 to 36 hours before occurrence | Issued when the weather event is imminent |
| Awareness is raised to take necessary actions to prepare | Immediate action is recommended to stay safe |
| Issued to notify that severe weather conditions are possible and likely to occur in the future | Issued to notify that severe weather conditions are already happening or imminent |
Conclusion
The question of which is worse, a watch or a warning is subjective and depends on the severity of the weather event. Both serve a critical purpose in alerting the public to the possibility or the occurrence of severe weather conditions. Awareness and preparation aid in minimizing the impact of natural disasters and reduce the loss of lives and property.
Common Questions and Answers
- What happens if you ignore a warning or a watch?
Ignoring a warning or a watch can lead to significant danger for you and your family. It is essential to heed the warnings and take the necessary safety measures to stay safe. - What should I do if I am in a tornado watch or warning?
If you are in a tornado watch or warning, you need to stay alert and prepare to take shelter as directed by local authorities. It is essential to stay away from windows and seek shelter in a safe and secure location. - What is the primary difference between a watch and a warning?
The primary difference between a watch and a warning is that a watch is issued before the occurrence of a disaster while a warning is issued when the weather event is imminent. - Do warnings get more urgent as a storm gets closer?
Yes, warnings get more urgent as a storm gets closer, and the National Weather Service issues the recommended actions based on the severity of the storm.
References
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: Watches vs. Warnings https://www.weather.gov/safety/thunderstorm-ww (accessed 29 July 2021)
- National Severe Storms Laboratory: What Watch Vs. Warning Means https://www.nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/watches/ (accessed 29 July 2021)