As of late April 2026, the United States has seen over 430 verified tornadoes, marking this year as one of the most active tornado seasons in recent times. Significant events include the catastrophic outbreak of 80 tornadoes on April 17th and an EF4 tornado that ravaged 40 homes in Enid, Oklahoma, leading to the closure of Vance Air Force Base. Experts link this remarkable level of activity to a strong jet stream pattern paired with unprecedented moisture levels from the Gulf. This year, tornadoes are also moving unusually far north, affecting areas in Minnesota, Illinois, and Wisconsin — and meteorologists caution that the historically deadliest months of May and June are still approaching.
