The national and local weather services have come up with specific terminology to inform the public on potential weather conditions and hazards. It’s incumbent upon you to know the difference between the terms, and to respond accordingly. Failure to react could result in bodily harm or worse, death. Don't take chances. 

A WATCH is issued when the conditions are such that could lead to severe weather. A Thunderstorm Watch means you should be prepared for the possibility of large hail, heavy rain, intense lightning, and/or damaging winds. It behooves you to secure or put away loose objects such as outdoor furniture, put your car in the garage, and listen carefully for weather updates. If it’s a Tornado Watch, be prepared to take shelter, ideally in the lower level of a sturdy building.

A Hurricane watch is issued only when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours. At that time, check your emergency supplies, have a battery-operated radio on hand, make sure there’s gas in the car, bring in outdoor objects, board up windows, turn refrigerators and freezer to their coldest settings, store drinking water and cooking utensils, put valuables in waterproof containers, and review your evacuation plan.

A weather‚WARNING means that the specific condition has actually been seen and it’s highly probable that it will impact your area. A Severe Thunderstorm or Tornado Warning may be issued less than one hour in advance. You will be notified of its movement and an approximate length of time before it arrives in your area. If you’re in the path of a tornado, take emergency precautions immediately.
 
A hurricane and other weather warning could give you anywhere from a six to 12-hour advance notice. Such a warning is issued when the winds are blowing at 74 miles per hour or greater, or are expected in 24 hours or less. Listen for updates continuously on battery-powered radios or TVs. If time permits, elevate furniture off the floor to protect it from flooding, or move it to a higher floor. Evacuate all mobile homes. Stay out of elevators. If at home, keep far away from any windows, skylights or glass doors. If the power goes out, unplug all major appliances to reduce power surges when it’s restored. Make sure there are no open flames. If told to do so, lock up the home and leave the area immediately.

Before you go, however, tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going. Take your disaster kit and emergency supplies, warm protective clothing, blankets and sleeping bags and head inland to the nearest recommended shelter.