2024 was a busy severe weather year. Most notably, the 1796 confirmed tornadoes is the 2nd most on record (1950-present). This near record tornado season was driven by a very active April and May in the Plains (which had been notably quiet for much of the last decade), 185 tropical cyclone tornadoes, and a busy late December. There were 6 EF3 tropical cyclone tornadoes from 4 different storms. In the 29 year period of the tropical cyclone tornado database (1995-2023) there had only been 5 total EF3 tornadoes. This busy tornado season resulted in 6 new state tornado records (Illinois, Iowa, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, and West Virginia). In addition to the notable tornado season, several hail records were broken. May had the most significant (2+ inch) hail reports (470) on record (316 in 2011). In addition, a new March largest hailstone (6 inches in Ada, OK on March 14) record and a new May largest hailstone (6.12 inches in Johnson City on May 9) record occurred. Finally, 2024 had the most significant (75+ mph) wind reports on record (1790 through October) (1955-present). Despite the much above normal tornado season, fortunately, direct tornado related fatalities (54) were well below the 20-year average of 78 fatalities. See the NWS article discussing this historic season here.

2020-2024 Tornado Fatalities

1991-2024 Tornado Fatalities