What’s the Difference Between a Storm Watch and a Storm Warning?

You’ve probably heard by now that greater Binghamton area is under a Winter Storm Watch from Friday morning through Saturday morning.  But what exactly does that mean?

Weather Watch-

A WATCH means that conditions are perfect for dangerous weather. In other words, a WATCH means WATCH out for what the weather could do and be prepared for the chance for some crazy stuff to go down.   For events that come and go quickly like severe thunderstorms, tornadoes or flash floods- a WATCH means that the odds are good for some pretty dangerous weather, but it's not happening yet.  For longer events like hurricanes or winter storms, a WATCH means that the storm isn't an immediate threat, but could become one so you should prepare by stocking up and should know what to do if the WATCH turns into a WARNING.

Weather Warnings-

A WARNING means that dangerous weather is happening right now, right where you are. For severe thunderstorms, tornadoes and flash floods, a WARNING means it’s going down and it’s going down right this second.  A winter storm WARNING means- don’t even think about leaving your house/business/school wherever because it’s not sage to go outside. If you’re traveling when a WARNING is issued, you need to not try to fight the storm, but instead find a place to hang out until the worst of it is over.

And now you know.