A weather watch means that conditions are favorable for hazardous weather to develop. It is not a guarantee that the hazard will occur, but it signals that people should stay alert and be prepared to act if a warning follows.

Watches typically cover larger areas and longer time periods than warnings. A tornado watch, for example, may cover several counties for several hours. During a watch, residents are advised to review safety plans and keep informed of the latest information.

The issuance of a watch is based on forecast confidence that the necessary ingredients for severe weather are coming together. If the threat materializes and becomes imminent, the watch is replaced or supplemented by warnings for specific locations. Understanding the watch-to-warning progression helps the public respond appropriately.

• Conditions favorable for hazardous weather
• Covers larger areas and longer times
• Signals need for preparedness
• May be followed by warnings