Severe Weather Safety Tips: Warning vs. Watch Provided by: Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM) Weather Type Watch Warning Severe Severe thunderstorms are Severe weather has been reported or Thunderstorm possible in and close to the indicated by radar. Warnings indicate watch area. impending danger to life and property. Tornado Tornadoes are possible in Tornado(s) have been sighted or is and close to the watch area. indicated by radar. Seek shelter immediately. Fire Weather Conditions are favorable for red Red Flag Warning: fire danger very flag conditions in and close to high or extreme, Sustained winds ≥ the watch area in the next 12 to 15 mph and relative humidity ≤ 25%, 48 hours. scattered dry thunderstorms, increased storm activity after a prolonged dry period, abrupt change in wind speed and direction that may affect the area. Flood Potential exists for a river to River is expected to exceed flood stage exceed flood stage in the next in the next 48 hours. Loss of life or 12 to 72 hours. property is possible. Flash Flood The potential exists for heavy Flash flood conditions are occurring or rains to create flash flooding in are expected to occur soon. Loss of life the next 6 to 24 hours. or property is possible. Winter Storm Conditions are favorable for Any combination of the following: hazardous winter weather 4” of snow or more in 12 hours including heavy snow, blizzard conditions, or significant or 6” of snow or accumulations of freezing rain or more in 24 sleet in the next 12 to 48 hours. hours. Accumulation of It may also include wind chills if ¼” or more of they are expected with the ice. above listed events. Created Mar. 2012 255, 121, 0 .