FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) - The threat of severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flooding is upon us as we head into the spring and summertime. Sure, we've still got one or two more snows left, but now is the time to start preparing for the impacts severe weather can have on you. 

Knowing what different weather watches and warnings mean will help you make decisions once it's go time.

Think of this as "Get Ready, Get Set, Go" to help prepare you for severe weather.

Your "Get Ready" step is to have a plan and be prepared. Know where you're supposed to go if a severe weather threat is near you.

Also, it's a good idea is to have a preparedness kit in case you lose power.

It should include things like non-perishable foods, bottled water, flashlights, batteries and first aid supplies. 

Step number two, know the difference between a weather *watch* and *warning.*

All watches and warnings are officially issued by the National Weather Service.

A severe weather *watch* is your "Get Set" phase.

This means conditions are favorable for the event to take place, whether it be a severe thunderstorm, tornado or flash flooding.

If you're under a watch, use this time to think about what your plan is incase you need to put it to use and you should pay attention to FOX 55 on-air, online, and on the mobile app to keep you up-to-date with weather information.

It's "Go" time when a severe weather *warning* is issued.

This means that the event is either happening, getting ready to happen, or likely.

Often times, you have enough time to check your weather source to see what type of warning it is and take action!

Putting your plan in place will help protect your life and potentially your property.

There should be no confusion of a Watch vs a Warning with this example. A Watch the ingredients are there for something, A Warning it's there. #cltwx #ncwx #scwx #WeatherAware pic.twitter.com/nk5kiM2Sfo

— Brad Panovich (@wxbrad) April 15, 2018

All of these steps are important and will help you in a severe weather situation.

For current weather conditions, go to the FOX 55 Severe Weather Center page.