What is the difference between a watch and a warning?

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — When severe weather is forecast in East Tennessee, there are a few things you need to know to keep you and your family safe.

First, what makes a thunderstorm “severe”?

Thunderstorms are considered severe if they can produce winds of 58 mph or greater and hail at least 1 inch in diameter. That's the size of a quarter!

Strong winds can break large branches, knock down trees and cause structural damage to buildings. Large hail can damage plants, roofs and vehicles.

If a WATCH is in effect for your area, it means conditions are favorable for severe storms. You should remain alert to changing weather conditions and be prepared to take shelter if needed.

If a warning is issued in your area, take action! This means large hail and/or damaging winds are coming or occurring near your location. Take shelter in a sturdy building away from doors and windows until the storm passes.

In addition to strong winds and large hail, severe storms can produce frequent lightning and heavy rains.

Although modern meteorology has made it easier to spot tornado activity on radar before a tornado makes direct landfall, there is little warning when a tornado strikes.

Like a severe weather warning/watch, a tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornado activity and you should closely monitor local conditions.

A warning indicates that a tornado has been spotted from the ground or has been observed spinning on radar, in which case you need to seek safe shelter and take cover immediately.

So what should you do if severe weather is in the forecast?

A basement is the best shelter from severe weather, but not everyone has that option. There are other places to take refuge and areas to avoid.

First, stay away from rooms with windows. If a strong gust of wind blows through, it could break the glass and send it flying across the room, even without a tornado.

Rooms with exterior walls are also dangerous. Even without windows, they stand no chance in a tornado.

Don't even think about the upper echelons. This will be the next target after the roof.

An indoor bathroom, wardrobe or laundry room are all places to consider.

When you reach a safe spot, get as low to the ground as possible and cover your head. It's a good idea to have a pillow or something else padded to provide extra protection from flying glass or objects.

If a tornado watch is in place, it's a good idea to check your safe spot and make sure it's ready to move in quickly. Clear the room of any unnecessary items and make sure there are clear paths inside.

If you live in a mobile home, you should consider going somewhere safer—find a designated shelter or a nearby sturdy building to take shelter in.

Forecast and prepare before the weather hits. It’s always good to be prepared just in case. There are several ways to receive alerts, such as listening to weather radio and turning on your phone's emergency alerts.

Create an emergency plan for you and your family for the worst-case scenario—make sure everyone knows what to do if severe weather hits and where to go if they are home alone or stranded on the road.

Be sure to have batteries, some flashlights, and charge your phone before the storm arrives. It's also a good idea to have a car charger for your phone, as well as a portable weather radio to keep track of severe weather updates in your area if power and cell service are jammed or completely disrupted.

You can stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts and receive alerts by downloading the WBIR app or following the WBIR Weather Team on social media!

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