Several southern Wisconsin counties are under a tornado watch Thursday afternoon, April 2.

The National Weather Service issued the watches around 1:45 p.m. for Grant, Rock, Lafayette, Green and Walworth counties. The tornado watches are in effect until 8 p.m. Thursday.

Areas under the watch include the cities of Argyle, Belmont, Beloit, Benton, Blanchardville, Brodhead, Darlington, Delavan, East Troy, Elkhorn, Janesville, Lake Geneva, Monroe, Platteville, Shullsburg and Whitewater.

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How do you stay safe during a tornado?

During a tornado, the NWS recommends:

• Get as low as possible. A basement below ground level or the lowest floor of a building offers the greatest safety.

• Put as many walls between yourself and the outside as possible.

What should you do if you’re driving during a tornado warning?

If you’re driving, particularly on interstates or highways, do not try to outrun a tornado.

If you are driving in an area with a tornado warning, you should look for ways to safely get off the road and out of your vehicle, preferably by seeking refuge in a sturdy building.

As a last resort, lie flat in the nearest depression, ditch or culvert and cover your head with your arms.

What is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning?

A tornado warning is issued when a tornado is either sighted or indicated on radar, meaning there is imminent danger to life and property.

If you are in the area of a tornado warning, take cover immediately in the lowest floor of a sturdy building. If you are outdoors, in a vehicle or a mobile home, move to the closest sturdy shelter and take cover.

A tornado watch is issued when the environment is capable of producing tornadoes. If you are located in the area of a tornado watch, the NWS recommends having a plan in place in the event a tornado forms. Be ready to act quickly if a tornado warning is issued.

This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: NWS issues tornado watch for several southern Wisconsin counties