NWS issues area Tornado Watch through 10 p.m. tonight

CHEROKEE COUNTY – National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch through 10 p.m. Thursday, April 2, 2025, for Cherokee and surrounding counties, including Rusk and Smith counties. 

According to NWS, a watch is issued when a tornado is possible, with residents reminded to have safe shelter in mind (a storm shelter, basement or an interior hall away from windows), and to be prepared to act quickly should a warning be issued.

A warning alerts residents that a tornado is happening or about to happen, officials said. Residents should immediately take shelter in a safe location.