A tornado watch was issued Saturday afternoon for a large part of Pennsylvania, including all of Centre County.

The watch is in effect through 8 p.m. and also includes parts of Ohio and West Virginia. Thunderstorms are in the forecast in the State College area through Saturday night, according to Accuweather, which noted that storms could bring “flooding downpours, hail, damaging wind gusts, and an isolated tornado.”

The National Weather Service also issued a flood watch for areas including Centre County through 2 a.m. Sunday.

“Several rounds of rain and occasional thunderstorms will occur into the first part of the night,” the NWS advisory states. “Rainfall amounts of over 2 inches per hour are possible where thunderstorms train over the same location. This will lead to the threat of localized flash flooding, especially in poor drainage and low-lying areas in cities and towns, and along roads adjacent to small streams and creeks.”

What is a tornado watch?

A tornado watch means a tornado is possible in or near the area. A watch generally covers a large area, likely multiple counties or even states, the weather service said. This is the time to be prepared and “review and discuss your emergency plans and check supplies and your safe room,” the NWS said.

A tornado warning indicates a tornado has been seen or indicated by radar and there is imminent danger to life or property, the NWS said. Residents should move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and stay away from windows. Those in a mobile home, vehicle or who are outdoors should find shelter and protect themselves from flying debris, the NWS said.

Weather outlook for Ironman race

Sunday will be a “damp day for the triathlon,” according to Accuweather’s website, referring to the Ironman 70.3 Pennsylvania Happy Valley, which starts early Sunday morning at Bald Eagle State Park. With a high of 84 degrees, Accuweather expects it to be humid and cloudy in the State College area with thunderstorms possible in the morning and afternoon.