The difference between watches and warnings

Environment and Climate Change Canada is responsible for issuing weather alerts in Canada. The agency issues 22 different alerts from snowfall warnings to heat warnings.

Most alerts are divided between watches and warnings and alerts are only issued when the criteria are met. Let's explore the difference between a watch and a warning.

Watch

Weather watches are usually issued before an event occurs such as a winter storm watch or a severe thunderstorm watch. When conditions are favourable for the development of the weather condition, these are issued.

When a watch is issued, you should have a plan of action.

Warning

Weather warnings are the more serious of the two. A warning is issued when severe weather is actually occurring or is imminent. Alerts such as blizzard warnings or tornado warnings mean that the event is happening or will in the imminent future and you should take protective action.

Staying weather aware is key to keeping you and your family safe.