Tornado watch vs. tornado warning: What is the difference? Here's what to know

Multiple tornadoes ripped through Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky overnight Thursday as powerful storms hit the region, while tornado warnings were issued in Texas and Alabama.

As a result of the Midwest storms, thousands of people were under a tornado watch or a tornado warning due to the severe weather. They may have lost power, suffered extensive damage or even seen a tornado move through their community from Thursday afternoon into early Friday morning.

When it comes to predicting the probability of tornadoes in an area, forecasters use two terms: tornado watch and a tornado warning. But what do those terms mean, and which one is more dangerous than the other?

Here's what you should know.

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What is a tornado watch?

A tornado watch is an alert issued by the National Weather Service. It means that tornadoes are possible in and near the "watch" area.

A tornado watch is issued by the Storm Prediction Center for counties where tornadoes may occur, and the watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or states.

If a tornado watch is issued in your area, the NWS says to be prepared and be ready to act quickly if the next level, a warning, is issued or if you suspect a tornado is approaching.

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What is a tornado warning?

A tornado warning is the more serious and urgent of the two terms, and means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Tornado warnings are issued by your local forecast office, and typically cover a much smaller area than a tornado watch.

If there is a tornado warning, that means there is imminent danger to life and property and affected residents should take action now, the National Weather Service says.

You should move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows. If you're in a mobile home, vehicle or are outdoors, move to the closest "substantial" shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tornado watch vs. tornado warning: What is more serious?