As we all watched the red highlighted warning cones as they progressed across the map on our television screens, once again I heard the words, “Which is worse Watch or Warning?”
It is embarrassing. We looked up the words and got them straight last year, now we are trying to remember it again. I’ve written about this before, but some things are important enough to repeat, especially since my column is appearing on Wednesdays now.
I know I get the two alert words confused and I know others do, too. Problem is that it is not like confusing names of new acquaintances, which is just embarrassing. Not knowing the difference between “Watch” and “Warning” can be serious.
According to the National Weather Service, a “Watch” generally comes first. It means that the conditions in or near a boxed area on the map are favorable for severe weather, for a tornado or for whatever words are before the word “Watch.”
In my opinion, it’s always good to say the words in the correct order; “Watch then Warning”
I like to compare this situation to a Neighborhood Crime Watch. The signs are up and neighbors are keeping their eyes open for criminal activity. It doesn’t mean crime will happen, but it means that it could. If it does, the neighbors will see and report it. A “Warning” will then go out.
If we are in a “Watch” we need to keep our eyes open for possible dangerous weather activity as specified in the alert. In a “Tornado Watch” conditions are favorable for rotation and we are watching for possible funnel cloud development. Keep your radio playing, cell phone nearby, or television on.
However, we do not need to wait for a “Watch” to prepare for bad weather. Next time we go to the grocery, we need to pick up batteries for flashlights or for emergency radios. It never hurts to have a gallon of extra drinking water set back for emergencies.
Right now, before a “Watch” is posted is the time to determine where to go for safety if a “Watch” becomes a “Warning.” Make sure your kids know the safest place in the house. Store a couple of flashlights there in case the “Warning” is at night.
Where should we go at the office? If church does not have a basement, where do we hide? Ask your kids, where will they go at school if a “Watch” becomes a “Warning.” Has the teacher talked about it? Keep a small flashlight in your purse. If you live in a mobile home, what is your plan? Now while the sun is shining is the time to ask the experts and do your research. Have a plan.
If a “Watch” becomes a “Warning,” weather just got more serious. A “Warning” is urgent. Danger is imminent. Action is required.
According to the National Weather Service, a “Severe Thunderstorm Warning” means you need to move quickly into a sturdy building.
A “Tornado Warning” means that a tornado has been sighted or has been indicated on radar in the alert area. The weather service says that people in or near the “Tornado Warning” area should immediately get into a safe shelter away from windows.
If you still cannot keep the differences between “Watch” and “Warning” straight, post “Watch” and “Warning” definitions on a note on the refrigerator door or bulletin board for quick reference.
And please don’t forget to pick up those batteries for your flashlights.
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