America's Top Tornado State in 2026 Isn't Texas or Oklahoma
An unlikely state has emerged as the leader in tornado counts this year while the traditional danger zone has been relatively quiet. Here is a look at how the tornado numbers are trending this season in the U.S.
Illinois Tops the List of Most Tornadoes in the U.S. This Year
Illinois continues to lead the way with tornadoes this year. As of the end of July, the state has already notched more tornadoes than any other year in recorded history. Conversely, the typical hot spots in "tornado alley" have lagged well behind the historical average.
The state of Illinois eclipsed its annual record of tornado counts in June. As of June 17, the state had already fielded 164 tornado reports. According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center (SPC), there were 221 reports of tornadoes by July 31. The greatest volume of tornadoes spun up in March, April, and June.
Indiana is firmly in second place by the end of July with 89 tornado reports. The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed that Indiana has also seen a record-breaking season. Mississippi, Missouri, and Iowa are also in the top five.
What is also notable for this year's season is the lack of activity across the historical tornado alley states of Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. In an average year, Illinois would have only seen 52 reports while Texas would have recorded more than 100 by this time of the season. However, the Lone Star State has only reported 58 twisters.
What is Causing the Shift in Tornadic Activity?
Meteorologists believe that the ongoing drought conditions in the western part of the nation have sent warmer air across Texas and Oklahoma, limiting the prevalence of severe weather in the southern U.S. This development has pushed the bulk of the severe weather impacts into states such as Illinois and Indiana.
In addition to the sheer volume of the tornadoes, Illinois has also been on the receiving end of some of the strongest storms. The state has reported five EF3 twisters. The strongest of this trio was on the ground for 35.6 miles, packing winds as high as 160 mph on March 10.
The most powerful tornado of the year hit Enid, Oklahoma, on April 23. Initially rated as an EF4 monster, this tornado notched winds of 180 mph.
Is Illinois emerging as the country's primary zone of impact for tornadoes? By this time last year, the state was tied with Texas for the most twisters at 116. Oklahoma and Missouri rounded out the top three.
Tornadoes have not been the only severe weather impact to skyrocket in Illinois this year. The Prairie State also leads in the nation with high-wind reports, coming in at 793 thus far this year by the end of July. Texas is holding strong in first place for the most hail reports, as is typical.
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