Watch. vs. Warning

Now that severe weather season is upon us, you may start to see watches and warnings occur more frequently in relation to the thunderstorms we see here on Delmarva. It is important to know the difference between a watch and a warning so that you can help to keep you and your family safe in the event of severe weather.

A severe thunderstorm watch: A watch means that there are potential conditions for the development of thunderstorms that could produce large hail or damaging winds. While the conditions may be favorable for severe storm development, the exact time and location are still undetermined. When a watch is issued, you may continue to complete your daily activities, but you should keep alert to the news in case a warning is issued afterwards.

A severe thunderstorm warning: A warning is issued when there is a severe thunderstorm occurring, or if one is about to occur. When a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, you should refrain from going outdoors, and stay inside or at a place of safety.

 Another thing you may be asking is, “What does it mean for a thunderstorm to be severe?” The National Weather Service, the organization that issues these watches and warnings, has certain criteria that must be met for a thunderstorm to be considered severe. If a thunderstorm has hail 0.75 inches in diameter or greater, and/or has wind gusts upwards of 58 mph, it is a severe storm. Another idea to note is that severe thunderstorms often can develop tornadoes, particularly in the Midwest. This is why these watches and warnings should not be taken lightly!

Watches and warnings are issued for every type of severe weather, but with the chance for thunderstorms to develop on Delmarva, it is important to know these differences in the upcoming months.