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2024 U.S. Tornado Reports Surge Above Historical Average After Severe Weather Outbreaks
May 10, 2024
UPDATE – May 13, 2024
The number of preliminary tornado reports across America has surged above 760.
The 2024 U.S. Tornado tally is well above the historical average of 571 tornadoes through May 12.
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AccuWeather Global Weather Center – May 10, 2024
Recent rounds of severe weather and tornado outbreaks across the United States have sent the number of tornado reports surging above the historical average for this time of year.
Roughly 700 preliminary tornado reports have been filed so far this year. The 2024 tornado tally is well above the historical average of 549 tornadoes through May 9.
There have been at least 170 preliminary tornado reports in the United States so far this month. More than 380 preliminary tornado reports were filed in April.
Records show that the only years with more tornado reports by May 9 were 2007, 2008, 2011, and 2017.
Texas, Iowa, Ohio, Kansas, and Nebraska have reported the most tornadoes so far this year.
“Hundreds of homes were destroyed, businesses were damaged, and thousands of lives have been turned upside down by these relentless tornado outbreaks over the past two weeks,” said AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter. “Our hearts go out to the families that lost loved ones, and to everyone directly impacted by these powerful storms. The United States experiences some of the most extreme and volatile weather in the world. These recent tornado outbreaks show just how important it is for everyone to be prepared, have a safe space ready, and to immediately get to shelter every time a tornado warning is issued in your area. People taking quick action based on the warnings in this major tornado outbreak saved many lives.”
The AccuWeather 2024 U.S. Tornado Forecast issued in March that accurately predicted “Tornado Alley May Roar Back To Life”. The forecast predicts 1,250 to 1,375 tornadoes in the United States this year. AccuWeather’s forecast is slightly higher than the historical average of 1,225 tornadoes annually.
Despite the recent outbreaks of violent tornadoes, large hail, damaging wind gusts, and flash flooding, some people who live in severe weather threat zones did not experience any storms in recent weeks.
Due to the nature of spring severe weather threats, pop-up thunderstorms, and spin-up tornadoes, Porter urges people not to become complacent and let their guard down.
“Notification and storm warning fatigue is real. Receiving repeated rounds of warnings in the same areas can be frustrating. We know it can be annoying, we understand that from a human level, but it’s so important during these stormy weather patterns to stay connected,” Porter explained. “Do not turn off warnings and alerts on your cell phone. Stay aware of what’s happening, especially when there are severe storms forecasted during the overnight hours when most people are sleeping. Those warnings can save your life. The last thing you want to do is turn them off because they’re annoying.”
Half of the tornadoes that hit the United States typically happen during the months of April, May, and June.
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