Dodge City, KS – Strong tornadoes are unusual for southwest Kansas in September, according to new data shared by the National Weather Service. Meteorologists say the month typically sees far fewer tornadoes compared to May, which historically records some of the highest numbers of severe storms across the U.S.
According to the National Weather Service office in Dodge City, May has produced five times as many strong tornadoes as September nationwide, and those storms have resulted in nearly ten times the number of fatalities. Officials noted that longer tornado path lengths in May contribute to the higher number of deaths and injuries compared to September events.
The data, compiled from the Tornado Archive, shows that while Kansas does experience occasional September tornadoes, many of the stronger ones during the month occur further north across the Upper Midwest. That includes portions of Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, southeast South Dakota, northern Illinois, and eastern Nebraska.
Tornadoes are rated on the Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale, with EF-2 and higher considered strong. The comparison maps released by the weather service illustrate just how much more active May is, with widespread tornado tracks covering the Plains, Midwest, and Southeast, while September reports appear far more scattered.
While the risk of strong tornadoes in southwest Kansas remains low this month, forecasters caution that residents should not let their guard down. Even in quieter months, severe storms can still occur, and preparation remains important.
The National Weather Service encourages residents to review their emergency plans, ensure weather alerts are enabled on mobile devices, and have a safe shelter identified in case severe weather strikes.
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