JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The 2024 tornado season in the U.S. is shaping up to be the worst in over a decade, with more than 1,000 tornado reports already.
This makes it the most active season since 2011, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center.
During the Memorial Day weekend alone, almost 100 tornadoes were reported across 13 states, claiming at least 22 lives. This surge has pushed the total number of tornadoes this year past 1,000. The most intense activity usually starts in April, which averages about 182 tornadoes, but April 2024 saw over 300 twisters nationwide. This includes a severe outbreak from April 25-28, when around 100 tornadoes hit in three days.
One of the most devastating tornadoes struck Marietta, Oklahoma, on April 27. This EF-4 tornado, with winds up to 200 mph, caused significant damage and resulted in one fatality. Marietta, a town of about 2,900 residents, saw several buildings destroyed.
May has also been particularly active.
By May 12, there were at least 133 tornadoes reported. Oklahoma, Michigan, and Tennessee were among the hardest hit, but Florida also experienced severe weather. On May 10, three tornadoes hit Tallahassee, damaging buildings and knocking out power for thousands.
Florida saw tornadoes earlier in the year too.
So far 42 tornadoes have raked the state with a high concentration around the Panhandle along with five tornadoes across Duval, St. Johns and Clay counties.
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During a severe weather outbreak from January 8-10, several tornadoes hit the Panhandle, including an EF2 tornado that caused significant damage in Lynn Haven. Another EF2 tornado impacted Marianna, where it destroyed many RVs and homes.
The 2024 season, while severe, still trails behind the record-setting 2011 season, which saw 1,287 tornadoes by early May. However, with the peak season still underway, there is potential for this year to set new records.