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Tornado Watch vs. Warning: What Each Means and What to Do

By Twisters.us · Updated · How we count

A watch means get ready; a warning means take shelter now. Here is what each alert means and what to do.

Alert What it means What to do
Tornado watch Conditions are right for tornadoes in and near the watch area, usually for several hours over a large area. Issued by the Storm Prediction Center. Review your plan, know where you will shelter, keep phones charged and alerts on, and keep watching the weather.
Tornado warning A tornado has been seen or shows up on radar. Issued by your local National Weather Service office for a small area, often for 30 to 45 minutes. Go to your safe place immediately. Do not wait to see it.
Particularly dangerous situation (PDS) watch A rare watch for days when several strong, long-track tornadoes are likely. Treat the day as serious: plan where you will be and have shelter close.
Tornado emergency The most serious warning: a large, destructive tornado is confirmed and heading for a populated area. Take shelter now. This is life or death.

How you get warnings

  • Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone (on by default for most phones).
  • NOAA Weather Radio with a SAME code for your county: it wakes you at night. See weather radios.
  • Outdoor sirens are meant for people outdoors; do not count on hearing them inside.
  • Local TV and radio, and weather apps.

Have at least two ways to get warnings, and at least one that works when the power and cell service are out.

Then what?

Read what to do in a tornado and check your county’s history.

Sources

Sources last checked 1 November 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Which is worse, a tornado watch or a warning?

A warning. It means a tornado is happening or imminent near you; take shelter right away.

How long does a tornado warning last?

Usually 30 to 45 minutes for a given area, but it can be extended or reissued as the storm moves.

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