Minute with the Mayor

It is that time of year again where storm threats seem to be rolling into our area.  I wanted to take the time to define the difference between the watches and the warnings that we receive.  Hopefully, we will all be ready if and when weather events are headed our way.

Weather Watch:

A watch means that conditions are favorable for the development of hazardous weather. It implies that people should stay informed and be prepared for the possibility of severe weather occurring.

Watches are typically issued hours to days in advance of the anticipated event to give people time to prepare. During a watch, people should keep an eye on weather updates and have a plan in place in case the situation escalates into a warning.

Weather Warning:

A warning means that hazardous weather is imminent or already occurring. It indicates that people should take immediate action to protect themselves and their property from the imminent threat.

Warnings are issued when severe weather conditions are either observed or highly likely to occur within a short period, usually within the next few hours. Examples of severe weather warnings include tornado warnings, severe thunderstorm warnings, flood warnings, etc.

In summary, a watch is letting us know that the possibility is there and conditions are ripe for a weather event.  A warning means that the weather event is here and already happening in our area.

Be safe out there. Finish strong.