The tornado season in 2025 has matched the number of tornadoes recorded in 2024, making it the second-highest annual total on record for the region. Only 2011, with 79 tornadoes, had more. The tornadoes this year have already left an incredible 567 miles of damage in their path, breaking the previous record of 449.8 miles set back in 2011.
Missouri, one of the hardest-hit states, has reported 24 tornadoes so far in 2025. Illinois follows with 16, Kentucky has seen 12, and Indiana has experienced 9. Two tornadoes have crossed into multiple states, impacting a larger area.
An Increase in Severe Tornadoes
What makes the 2025 tornado season especially concerning is the increase in the strength of these storms. Nine of this year’s tornadoes have been rated EF-3 or higher, making it the highest number of high-intensity twisters in a single year since 1957.
For comparison, only four EF-3+ tornadoes were recorded in the region between 2014 and 2023. In total, 13 powerful tornadoes have occurred in the past 13 months, including four in 2024.
The breakdown of tornado strength for 2025 includes 5 EF-0 tornadoes, 28 EF-1, 17 EF-2, 7 EF-3, and 2 EF-4 tornadoes. The damage from these storms has mainly impacted counties across southern Missouri, western Kentucky, and southern Illinois.
Tornado Preparedness Remains Crucial
Local authorities continue to issue alerts and preparedness messaging as the peak tornado season extends into the summer months.
The NWS in Paducah urges residents in the affected regions to stay alert and be prepared for additional storms, as the season continues to unfold with the potential for even more severe weather.
While these powerful storms are terrifying, staying informed and following safety guidelines is essential for protecting lives and property during this unprecedented tornado season.
