Large Tornado Outbreaks Are Becoming More Common
Unusually high number of tornadoes, with more than 850 reported—far exceeding the typical 600 by mid-May. Recent storms have devastated Kentucky, Missouri, and Virginia, killing dozens. Earlier this spring, tornado outbreaks swept through eight Midwestern states.
While the overall number of tornadoes hasn’t shown long-term growth, large outbreaks—many tornadoes occurring rapidly over vast areas—are becoming more frequent. These events require extensive forecasting efforts, demanding skilled meteorologists and advanced radar coordination.
“In the past, we didn’t see the kind of large outbreak days that we do now,” says Melissa Widhalm of Purdue University’s Midwestern Regional Climate Center. “It used to be kind of unusual to see dozens of them in a day. And now we get that year after year.”
The National Weather Service has faced challenges in responding to major outbreaks due to staff shortages caused by budget cuts and a federal hiring freeze. During Kentucky’s recent deadly outbreak, forecasters from other offices had to be brought in to compensate for staffing gaps.
Scientists are still working to understand changing tornado patterns. Some research suggests climate change may shift tornado seasons, increasing storms in fall and winter as warm, moist air—essential for tornado formation—becomes more common. However, long-term impacts remain uncertain.
Understanding and preparing for these evolving tornado patterns is crucial, especially as forecasting becomes more complex. Despite challenges, meteorologists continue to provide essential warnings, helping communities stay safe during extreme weather events.
Source: