Washington, D.C. – The U.S. recorded 1,796 tornadoes in 2024, making it the second most active year in history, according to NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center (SPC). This total was just 21 short of the all-time record set in 2004.
Severe storms in late April and May drove much of the increase, with over 1,000 tornadoes confirmed by the end of May. Hurricane-driven tornadoes also contributed, with 185 twisters linked to storms like Beryl, Debby, Helene, and Milton. Notably, six EF-3 tornadoes were recorded from tropical systems, surpassing the previous 29-year total of five.
State Tornado Records Broken
Six states set new tornado records in 2024:
- Illinois – 142
- New York – 32
- Ohio – 74
- Iowa – 125
- Oklahoma – 152
- West Virginia – 20
A major outbreak on December 28 capped the year, producing nearly 100 tornadoes in the Southeast. Despite the near-record activity, tornado-related deaths remained below average, with 54 fatalities, more than half occurring in mobile homes. Experts urge continued preparedness as severe weather patterns persist into 2025.
