The Difference Between Watches And Warnings

Safety Alerts Important During Severe Weather

NORTH TEXAS (CBSDFW.COM) - When it comes to watches and warnings, there's a big difference that North Texans should be aware of.  Your safety is vital before, during and after the storm.

Watches are issued for severe thunderstorms, tornadoes or flash flooding.  A watch means dangerous weather is possible.  At the very least, you should be alert to the weather around you and be prepared to act.  Watches are issued for a broad area and usually include several counties in North Texas.

A warning means dangerous weather is happening right now.  It's time to act now and take appropriate safety measures.
A warning is issued for a specific area of a county.  On TV, the warned area will be highlighted in the shape of a polygon.
It's a more accurate way to warn people in a specific area that dangerous weather is taking place right now.