Severe Weather Awareness Week Highlights Thunderstorm Dangers and the Meaning of Watches and Warnings

As part of Spring Severe Weather Awareness efforts, the National Weather Service Shreveport is emphasizing the dangers associated with severe thunderstorms and the importance of understanding watches and warnings.

Severe thunderstorms can produce large hail and damaging wind gusts capable of downing trees, damaging roofs and vehicles, and causing power outages. Officials encourage residents to move indoors at the first sign of threatening weather and to avoid windows during storms with strong winds or hail.

A key focus of the campaign is helping the public understand the difference between a watch and a warning.

A watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop. For example, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch or Tornado Watch indicates that atmospheric conditions could produce severe storms or tornadoes. During a watch, residents should review their safety plans, monitor weather updates, and be prepared to take action if conditions worsen.

A warning, on the other hand, means severe weather is occurring or imminent. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning indicates that a storm capable of producing large hail or damaging winds has been detected by radar or reported by trained spotters. A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. When a warning is issued, immediate action should be taken to seek shelter.

Officials also stress the importance of having multiple ways to receive warnings, including NOAA Weather Radio, local media, trusted weather apps, and emergency alert systems on mobile devices. Having more than one reliable method ensures residents can receive critical information quickly, even during power outages or overnight hours.

Emergency managers say understanding the difference between watches and warnings — and knowing how to receive them — can make a significant difference in staying safe during severe weather season.