Storm Readiness: Knowing the difference between Tornado Watch vs Tornado Warning

The month of April is on average one of the most active for Tornados in Mississippi. In the last several weeks The Queen City has had its fair share of severe weather from tornados, wind damage, and even flash flooding. Doug Stephens, the Public Safety Director gives tips on how to stay ahead and be prepared for incoming bad weather.

“March, April, and May, may be in the peak season of our severe weather. It's very, very important that people have multiple ways to receive notifications of severe weather. That's one of the key factors in any preparedness is the notification process,” said Stephens.

Most weather alerts are sent out by the national weather service. From a tornado watch to a tornado warning knowing the difference is crucial.

Stephens says,” A watch says conditions are favorable for severe weather, whether it be tornado warnings, thunderstorm warnings, things like that. And once you transition from a watch to a warning, a warning is a much more isolated area. Most of the time they've put out by counties, and that means that there is either radar indicated or there's actual spotting of severe weather that's causing damages.”

In the event that you find yourself in the midst of severe weather, he says having a plan of action is another critical aspect to be prepared.

“Have a plan know your safe areas, know a location that you can go if you live in a mobile home, that's a sturdier structure for you to be in and you and your family,” stated, Stephens.

Remember during a tornado warning do not leave your safe place until the tornado warning has expired for your area.