A tornado watch is issued by the Storms Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma when their radar shows the development of tornado-spawning thunderstorms. Watches are usually issued through radio and TV to alert the public that tornados may develop in their area during a certain time period.

During tornado watches, the public is advised to keep alert for unusually loud winds and flying debris, as well as keeping alert to further announcements from the National Weather Service. Once a tornado has been spotted either visually or on a radar screen, a tornado warning is then issued.