National Weather Service Issues Tornado Watch for Oklahoma and Texas
Dozens of counties face severe weather alerts on Monday afternoon as conditions become favorable for tornadoes.
The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch on Monday, Nov. 2, affecting dozens of counties across Oklahoma and northern Texas. The alert went into effect at 1:27 p.m. and is scheduled to remain active until 10:00 p.m. local time, according to meteorologists.
The watch area spans a significant portion of the region, encompassing 39 counties in Oklahoma and eight counties in northern Texas. Major cities included in the advisory range from Oklahoma City and Norman to Lawton, Stillwater, Wichita Falls, and Altus.
According to the National Weather Service, a tornado watch indicates that atmospheric conditions are primed for the development of tornadoes, although no twister has necessarily formed yet and a touchdown may not occur. Residents are advised to monitor the weather closely.
Meteorologists emphasize the distinction between watches and warnings. While a watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather, a tornado warning is issued when a tornado is imminent through cloud rotation or has already been sighted, requiring immediate shelter.
To remain safe during a tornado watch or potential warning, officials advise getting as low as possible within a building. A basement below ground level or the lowest interior floor provides the greatest protection, keeping as many walls as possible between individuals and the outside while avoiding windows.
For motorists caught on the road during severe weather, experts caution against attempting to outrun a tornado. Drivers should safely exit roadways, leave their vehicles, and seek sturdy shelter, utilizing a low-lying ditch or depression with head protection only as an absolute last resort.
Meanwhile, weather systems are impacting other parts of the country as well, with thunderstorms developing along a cold front in eastern Nebraska on Monday evening. That system carries a low severe weather risk and potential for gusty winds, ahead of rainy and breezy conditions forecasted for Election Day on Tuesday.