This year has seen a dramatic increase in tornadoes across the United States, with over 1,750 preliminary reports filed – the highest number in 13 years.
This surge is attributed to a combination of factors, including a busy hurricane season, a strong second severe weather season, and significant spring outbreaks.
“It’s been a big year for tornadoes in America,” said AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Expert Paul Pastelok. “We’ve seen tornado threats throughout the year. It’s been exceptionally active.”
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Hurricanes played a key role in driving up the tornado count, generating 178 twisters. Hurricane Beryl alone spawned dozens of tornadoes, impacting states from Texas to New York.
These hurricane-spawned tornadoes, combined with those from typical weather systems, contributed to the unusually high number of twisters this year.
Despite a slow start, the spring tornado season saw intense outbreaks in May, pushing the year’s total well above average. The “Tornado Alley” region lived up to its name, experiencing the highest concentration of tornadoes. Texas, as usual, recorded the most with 150 preliminary reports, followed by Nebraska and Iowa with 131 each.
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Interestingly, some states outside of the traditional Tornado Alley also experienced a surge in tornado activity. Florida, impacted by Hurricane Milton, ranked in the top five for tornado reports. New York and Ohio also witnessed unusually high numbers, with 32 and 81 reports respectively.
While the peak tornado season is waning, the possibility of further twisters remains. However, the risk is diminishing as we head towards winter. Experts predict that while 2024 has been a remarkable year for tornadoes, it’s unlikely to surpass the record-breaking year of 2011, which saw a staggering 2,250 preliminary reports.
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