Book 7, Question 38
Why Is a Tornado Watch Different From a Warning?
A tornado watch and a tornado warning sound alike, but they mean very different things. A watch means a tornado could happen, so be ready. A warning means one is happening or about to, so take action now.
From the book
Page from A Million Whys Book 7
More fun facts
- Tornado watches come from NOAA's Storm Prediction Center, where meteorologists watch the weather across the whole country 24 hours a day.
- A watch can cover parts of one state or several states.
- Tornado warnings come from your local National Weather Service office.
- A warning means a tornado has been reported by storm spotters or spotted on radar.
- A warning can cover parts of one county or several counties in the storm's path.
- Most tornadoes happen between 4 and 9 p.m., but they can happen at any time of day or night.
- NOAA Weather Radio is one way to hear about warnings as soon as they are issued.
Sources: NOAA
Questions kids ask
Who issues a tornado watch?
Meteorologists at NOAA's Storm Prediction Center.
Who issues a tornado warning?
Your local National Weather Service office, when a tornado is reported or seen on radar.