VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch. The watch affects most of the southwest and central regions of the state of Virginia.

The watch was issued due to the threat of severe weather. Specifically, a tornado watch means that current conditions in a certain area improve the likelihood of a tornado forming.

The watch was issued at 10:30 a.m. on Friday morning. It expires at 5 p.m. on Friday.

However, a tornado watch is not the same as a tornado warning. If you are in an area with an official watch, it means that severe weather is imminent. Therefore, you need to take shelter right away.

CBS6 meteorologist Mike Stone said, “Additional watches will likely be issued for much of central Virginia this afternoon and this evening.” He added, “Storms with damaging winds and isolated tornadoes are expected”.

Tornadoes usually form as a result of thunderstorms. Therefore, thunderstorms can be a good indicator of a tornado watch.

So, how does a tornado form?

Warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico combines with cool, dry air from Canada. This causes instability in the atmosphere. Strong rotation between these different types of air often lead to severe weather conditions. Sometimes, tornadoes form.

If a tornado warning is issued in your area, always take cover. Abandon your cars and mobile homes. Seek a sturdier building.

Once in a secure building, go into the basement of your house or building. Otherwise, get to the lowest level possible. Put as much space between you and outside-facing walls as you possibly can. Furthermore, stay away from windows. Use a closet or a hallway if needed.

Remain inside. Stay inside until officials lift the warning.