In spite of lots of public education and outreach efforts through the years, there remains a good bit of confusion about one of the more essential elements of the severe weather warning process. Simply, that confusion surrounds understanding of the difference in a 'watch' and a 'warning.'
In a general sense, a 'watch' is issued when environmental conditions are generally favorable for some type of adverse weather (whatever the watch is issued for) to occur. A 'warning' is issued then those adverse weather conditions are occurring or are highly likely to occur.
For the purposes of this discussion, let's look at Tornado Watches and Warnings.
If you find yourself under a Tornado Watch, that means that tornadoes are possible, but there is not an imminent threat for the time being. At this time, we are 'watching' for the possibility of tornadoes. When under a Tornado Watch, that is the time to make sure you have quick access to safe shelter, and be ready to put your severe weather safety plan into action should conditions warrant.
If a Tornado Warning is issued for your location, that means the threat from a tornado is imminent or occurring. When placed under a tornado warning, that is the time to stop whatever you are doing and put your tornado safety plan into immediate action.
I hope this helps.....and please spread the word to continue to help to alleviate the confusion with understand the difference in watches and warnings.