The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch, in effect until 10 PM this evening. This includes not only our area, but central and southern New Jersey, Berks, Lehigh, and Northampton counties and most of the remainder of eastern Pennsylvania.

The National Weather Service issues a tornado watch when conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the watch area. Their size can vary depending on the weather situation. They are usually issued for a duration of 4 to 8 hours. They normally are issued well in advance of the actual occurrence of severe weather.

During the watch, people should review tornado safety rules and be prepared to move a place of safety if threatening weather approaches.