Weather
Illinois Had Most Tornadoes In State's History In 2024, NWS Says
To prepare for severe weather, you should have a designated space in your home where you will shelter if severe weather approaches.
ILLINOIS — As we enter another severe weather season in Illinois, which is generally considered April to June, it's important to prepare for emergencies which can arise with severe weather.
According to the National Weather Service, Illinois set a new state record with an active tornado season in 2024. Illinois had 142 tornadoes in 2024, which broke the previous record of 125 set in 2006.
Severe weather can of course occur outside the April-June window, and a "ring of fire" weather pattern caused significant flash flooding and a powerful derecho to impact the Chicago area in July 2024.
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"The derecho produced a record number of tornadoes in both the NWS Chicago forecast area and in the state of Illinois," according to the weather service.
Last year also saw rare February tornadoes, which was the fourth time since 1950 that tornadoes were recorded in the area in February, the weather service noted.
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The 10-year average number of tornadoes for the NWS Chicago forecast area is 15 to 20; in 2024, we saw 63 tornadoes in the area, according to the weather service.
The weather serviced noted that its ability to detect "weak" tornadoes, like EF-0s, is improving and is contributing to the increasing number of annual tornadoes. The average number of "strong tornadoes," remains steady, about 1 per year for our area.
To prepare for severe weather, you should have a designated space in your home where you will shelter if severe weather approaches. This space should be an interior room, preferably on the lowest level of the building, according to the weather service.
When a tornado watch is issued, you should have the following items stored in your safe space: helmets, pillows or even a mattress to protect from debris; shoes; a whistle or noise-making device; pet carriers, leashes or other pet supplies; baby formula, diapers or other items for children.
When a tornado warning is issued, you should enter your safe space and cover up to protect yourself from debris.
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