A tornado watch signals the potential for severe weather, including tornadoes, over a broad area, urging residents to prepare for possible storms. A tornado warning, however, indicates an immediate threat to life and property in a specific area, requiring urgent action to seek shelter. Tornadoes can cause significant damage, including destruction of homes, uprooting of trees, and flying debris, which poses a serious risk to personal safety. Understanding these alerts can help individuals and families take appropriate measures to minimize risks during severe weather events.