Severe Weather Watch
Means that severe weather may develop, with the highest probability in and close to the watch area.

A watch is only an indication of where and when the probabilities for severe weather are highest. Persons within the Watch area should be on the look-out for threatening weather conditions which may rapidly develop in the area.

Severe Weather Warning
Means that a severe thunderstorm or tornado has actually been sighted in the area or its presence indicated by radar.

A Warning describes the "downstream" area that could be affected. This area is determined from the location, size, direction and speed of movement of the storm. When a Warning is received, persons in the path of the storm should seek shelter immediately.

Weather Channel