The latest update regarding possible tornadoes in the U.S. today indicates a significant risk of severe weather. Tornado watches have been issued across parts of the Southern Plains, including areas in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska. This means conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued a particularly strong wording for the potential outbreak, emphasizing the risk for strong, long-tracked tornadoes and significant hail. This language is not used often, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
A tornado watch indicates that weather conditions are favorable for the formation of tornadoes in and close to the watch area. This is typically issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when they are tracking severe weather conditions that could lead to tornadoes. During a tornado watch, residents in the affected areas are advised to be prepared and stay informed about the weather conditions.
On the other hand, a tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been spotted or indicated by weather radar. It means a tornado is occurring, or will be occurring soon, in the warning area. When a tornado warning is issued, immediate action is necessary to protect life and property. This could mean taking shelter in a basement, an interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building, or a specially designed tornado shelter.
As of now, the situation is evolving rapidly, with reports suggesting the potential for a significant tornado outbreak across the Southern Plains.