Spring and summer in Iowa mean severe weather is on the way, so here’s a look at watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
In severe weather, what is the difference between a watch and a warning?
A watch means that conditions are favorable for severe weather, but it will not occur immediately, according to the National Weather Servicewhich is responsible for issuing weather alerts.
A watch is used when the risk of dangerous weather has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location or timing is still uncertain. Its goal is to give people enough time to prepare and activate emergency plans, the weather service said.
Watches typically cover a large area where severe weather could develop.
A warning occurs when conditions are already present or will soon be present. Warnings generally cover a much smaller area – towns, villages – that may be affected.
A warning means that the weather conditions pose a threat to life or property. People in the path of the storm should take protective measures immediately.
What should I do in the event of a severe thunderstorm or tornado?
During a severe weather watch, you need to plan and prepare. A surveillance area is typically large, covering many counties or even states. In Iowa, it is not uncommon for a third or more of the state to be included in a watch zone.
- Stay aware: If you have plans outside, stay aware of the weather. You can check the forecast at Weather.gov/dmx.
- Receive warnings and alerts: There are many ways to stay informed with weather alerts throughout the day. Here are some from the NWS:
- Local television and radio stations regularly broadcast official “watches” and “warnings” issued by the National Weather Service, as well as forecasts and storm tracks developed by on-air meteorologists.
- Emergency notifications on your phone: Wireless emergency alerts, which will notify you when the weather threatens. To learn more about alerts, visit www.weather.gov/wrn/wea.
- NOAA Weather Radio is a national network of radio stations broadcasting 24/7 weather information directly from the nearest National Weather Service office.
What should I do during a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning?
During a severe weather warning, it’s time to take action and follow your plan.
NWS has advice on what to do in different locations:
- Stay prepared for bad weather: Continue to follow local news or listen to a NOAA weather radio to stay informed of watches and warnings.
- At your place: Go to your safe location, such as the basement or lowest level, if you hear a warning. Take your pets with you if weather permits.
- At your workplace or school: Stay away from windows. Do not go into large, open rooms such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums.
- Out: Immediately enter a solid building. Sheds and storage facilities are unsafe. Taking shelter under a tree can be deadly.
- In a vehicle: It is safer to be in a vehicle in bad weather than to be outside, but drive to the nearest safe shelter if you have enough time. Do not stop or park under a bridge or underpass.
Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Contact her at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter @VictoriaReynaR.
