What’s the difference between a tornado watch and warning?

By Fiza Pirani and Clanton Nancy, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

ATLANTA — What’s the difference between a tornado “watch” and a tornado “warning?”

According to the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, a "watch" means a tornado is possible in your area.

A "warning" means a tornado has been spotted, and you need to take shelter immediately.

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Where should you take shelter?

  • Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection.
  • If that's not an option, go into an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor.
  • In a high-rise, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor.
  • Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. Stay away from corners; they attract debris.
  • A vehicle, trailer or mobile home does not provide good protection.
  • If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge

The American Red Cross also suggests that you:

  • Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed.
  • Know your community's warning system, because they aren't all the same.
  • Practice tornado drills so children know what to do
  • Remove diseased and damaged limbs from trees before high winds hit.
  • Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile.
  • Watch for tornado danger signs: dark, often greenish clouds; wall cloud – an isolated lowering of the base of a thunderstorm; cloud of debris; large hail; funnel cloud – a visible rotating extension of the cloud base; roaring noise.

After the storm:

  • Finding important documents (deeds, insurance, etc.) will be easier if you've stored them in a safe-deposit box or other safe place.
  • Use bottled water or boil tap water before drinking it. Discard any food that comes in contact with contaminated water.
  • Inspect your home for damage, and take steps to prevent more damage (cover holes with plywood or plastic).
  • Stay out of damaged buildings and away from downed power lines.
  • You can let family know you’re safe by registering on the American Red Cross Safe and Well website. You can also call 1-866-GET-INFO (1-866-438-4636) to register.