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> I mean, yes, the sirens are technically just a warning. But they don't go off until things get really serious. If you hear them, you need to get to actual she
by ascagnel_ 5y ago
> I mean, yes, the sirens are technically just a warning. But they don't go off until things get really serious. If you hear them, you need to get to actual shelter as quickly as possible.
I don't live in a tornado area, but I had always assumed tornado warnings functioned similarly to other storm warnings -- a "watch" indicates elevated activity and likelihood of a severe weather event, while a "warning" indicates danger is likely and you should take appropriate action immediately to avoid danger.
- nharada 5y agoA watch means conditions that would likely allow a tornado are present, a warning means a funnel has been spotted either visually or on radar. I grew up in a tornado prone area, and during a warning we were taught to shelter in the basement since it means there's a tornado somewhere in the area.
- jscheel 5y agoI live in Dixie Alley, we have to take warnings seriously here. A warning does not mean "danger is likely." The NWS defines a warning like so: "A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. There is imminent danger to life and property. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If in a mobile home, a vehicle, or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris."
- totesraunch 5y agoAs a west-coaster I'm curious, if during a warning people are driving/walking around what's the standard thing people do? Do business allow public in for safety or do people try and go home?