JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The 2024 tornado season in the United States has been exceptionally active, ranking among the busiest years on record.
Since the start of the year, more than 850 confirmed tornadoes have been reported, many of which occurred during significant tornado outbreaks. Notably, there have already been at least four days where 30 or more tornadoes formed during a single outbreak.
This surge in tornado activity has resulted in considerable damage and has tragically claimed 39 lives across the country. What's particularly interesting this season is the geographic spread of tornadoes. While historically associated with Tornado Alley, this year has seen numerous tornadoes in the Midwest and even in North Florida, indicating a broader distribution of these severe weather events.
Why So Many Tornadoes?
The increase in tornado activity can be attributed to several factors:
Transition to La Niña Phase: The shift to a La Niña phase, which typically brings conditions more favorable for tornado formation, has played a significant role.
Warm Sea Surface Temperatures: The Gulf of Mexico has experienced some of the warmest sea surface temperatures on record for this time of year. This warmth provides additional energy to the spring storm systems that traverse the United States, enhancing their potential to spawn tornadoes.
Florida's Unique Tornado Season
It's important to remember that the peak tornado season in Florida often occurs in September, coinciding with the height of hurricane season. Hurricanes making landfall can produce tornadoes, adding another layer of complexity to severe weather forecasting. This year, the National Hurricane Center is predicting an above-average hurricane season, which could further increase tornado activity in Florida.
