What is worse, a watch or a warning?

With the constantly changing weather, thunderstorms are lurking over us. It has now become extremely necessary to be aware of both a watch and a warning. So what is worse, a watch or a warning? Let's find out! Many people do not clearly understand the difference between both a watch and a warning. So, how come it's so important to understand the difference? It is useful when any of them is estimated, and you have proper information on how to tackle it.

Let us try to understand the following topics to find an answer to what is worse, a watch or a warning, 

  • What is a watch?
  • What is a warning?
  • What is the difference between a watch and a warning?
  • What is worse, a watch or a warning?

What is a watch?

The points below will help explain what a watch is (and by a watch, it’s not the one ticking on your walls!) 

  • A storm watch is a term used when the weather is estimated and has not taken place yet. 
  • Watch is supposed to gauge conditions that may lead to dangerous weather, heavy rains, or thunderstorms.
  • Watch gives you the necessary time to prepare for any adverse conditions. 

What is a warning?

A warning can be very well summarised in the points mentioned below,

  • A warning is an indication of already observed severe conditions in weather.
  • This is an alert that is supposed to be taken very seriously. 
  • If a warning is issued,  you can be very assured that in the nearby locations, the weather conditions are worse in a very dangerous manner. 

What is the difference between a watch and a warning?

The confusing nature of a watch and a warning can lead to you being under or over-prepared for the situation. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the difference between a watch and a warning. 


Here in the table below are some very important differences between the two,

S.No.

WATCH

WARNING
     
  •  

A watch is issued by meteorologists when there is an estimated dangerous weather condition. 

A warning is issued by the meteorologists because there are already adverse weather situations in the nearby area. 
  •  

A watch is supposedly issued to provide you about 24 hours before any dangerous weather condition is spotted. 

A warning is an immediate alert of the severe weather conditions turning more dangerous. 

What is worse, a watch or a warning?

Both watch and warning are not to be taken lightly. But, when given more thought, an estimation such as a watch is not at all worse than the ongoing severe situation as issued by the warning. Therefore, making a warning worse than a watch.