What is a Tornado Warning?
A tornado warning is a severe weather alert issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when a tornado has been visually confirmed or indicated by radar. Unlike a tornado watch, which signals potential tornado conditions, a tornado warning means a tornado is either occurring or about to occur in the warned area.
When a tornado warning is issued, residents should immediately take cover in a storm shelter, safe room, or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Underground tornado shelters and above-ground safe rooms provide the highest level of protection.
Tornado warnings typically last 30 to 45 minutes but can be extended or reissued as the storm moves. Weather officials use Doppler radar to track storm rotation, issuing warnings when a tornado is likely to form or has been spotted.
Ignoring a tornado warning can be life-threatening. Immediate action is critical to survival, making it essential for families and businesses to have an emergency plan, including access to a storm shelter or safe room.