There is a distinct difference between the two ... issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Storm Prediction Center, or SPC, hours ahead of a storm system.

What's the difference between a winter storm watch, an advisory and a warning? And can they mean different things for different parts of Indiana?

A Watch means weather conditions are favorable for development. When we are in a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, it means severe thunderstorms could develop (58 mph winds or greater, 1" hail, or tornadoes). When we are in a Tornado Watch, it means the environment is ripe or conducive for tornado development.