Weather Terms (Watches & Warnings)

Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a hazard

Flood Terms:

Flood Watch:

Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.

Flash Flood Watch:

Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.

Flood Warning:

Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.

Flash Flood Warning:

A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.

Thunderstorms and Lightning Terms:

Severe Thunderstorm Watch:

Tells you when and where severe thunderstorms are likely to occur. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.

 Severe Thunderstorm Warning:

Issued when severe weather has been reported   by spotters   or   indicated   by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm.

Tornado Terms:

Tornado Watch:

Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms. Watch the sky and stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.

Tornado Warning:

A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.