Tornado Watch vs. Tornado Warning vs. Tornado Emergency: What to Do for Each
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How we wrote this: A plain-English summary of National Weather Service guidance on tornado alerts, checked October 29, 2026. Always follow your local NWS office and emergency officials.
Three alert levels
| Alert | Meaning | Who issues it | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tornado Watch: Be prepared | Tornadoes are possible in and near the area | Storm Prediction Center | Large: many counties or even states |
| Tornado Warning: Take action | A tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar; imminent danger | Your local forecast office | Small, about a city or small county |
| Tornado Emergency: Seek shelter immediately | A violent tornado has touched down; severe threat to life, catastrophic damage confirmed | NWS (its highest alert level) | Where the tornado is |
During a watch
- Review your emergency plan, check supplies, and check your safe room.
- Be ready to act quickly if a warning comes or you think a tornado is approaching.
During a warning
- Go to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, and avoid windows.
- In a mobile home, vehicle or outdoors, get to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.
During a tornado emergency
- Seek refuge immediately in the safest place you can.
- Call friends and family in the area to make sure they know.
- If you see a tornado coming, don't try to outrun it.
Getting the alert
Warnings can reach phones through Wireless Emergency Alerts. NOAA Weather Radio and local media also carry them.
Related: severe thunderstorm watch vs. warning, high wind alerts, flood safety.