What's the Difference?
Both warnings and watches are issued for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flash floods. These are two important ways you can anticipate a potential emergency. Watches and warnings are broadcast over the radio and TV and issued through emergency notification systems and apps.
- Watch - Conditions are favorable for the severe weather event in or near the watch area. When a watch is announced, stay alert and be ready to take action.
- Warning - Severe weather event is imminent or occurring in the warned area. Take action based on the emergency at hand.
Weather radios can be purchased at many retail outlets including electronics, department, sporting goods, and boat and marine accessory stores and their catalogs. They can also be purchased via the Internet from online retailers or directly from manufacturers.
Rockwall County Office of Emergency Management is now using the
Nixle notification network. Nixle will provide registered users with urgent messages and alerts including weather warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Nixle makes this information instantly available over web, mobile and smart phone devices.