Indianapolis, IN – Indiana has experienced a record-breaking 79 tornadoes in 2026, state officials announced Wednesday while highlighting the work of local emergency management agencies during a year of widespread severe weather.
According to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, the 79 tornadoes represent the highest annual total in state history. The agency said tornadoes, storms, flooding and derecho damage have affected communities across Indiana this year.
Gov. Mike Braun issued disaster declarations following severe weather in March and June, IDHS said. Local emergency management agencies later partnered with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to assess storm damage on July 16.
Emergency managers monitor hazardous weather, distribute public warnings, mobilize resources and coordinate response efforts involving local, state and federal agencies. Their work also extends beyond the immediate emergency as communities begin debris removal, damage assessments and longer-term recovery.
IDHS shared the figures during EMA Appreciation Week, an observance recognizing local emergency management personnel serving Indiana’s counties.
A state tornado-history graphic lists more than 2,500 tornadoes in Indiana’s historical record, along with hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries. The agency’s annual chart shows tornado activity has varied significantly from year to year since 1950.
The announcement is not an active tornado warning. Residents should continue monitoring official forecasts and alerts whenever severe storms are expected. During a tornado warning, officials recommend moving to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.
Indiana residents can learn more about emergency preparedness, storm response and local EMA programs through the Department of Homeland Security’s emergency management resources.
