In May 2026, the United States recorded just 106 confirmed tornadoes, which is under 40 percent of the historical average of 265 tornadoes, primarily due to the La Nina to El Nino atmospheric transition dampening typical tornado conditions. However, forecasters indicate that June typically sees a significant increase as the threat moves into the northern Plains, Midwest, and upper Great Lakes regions. The Storm Prediction Center has already released several Slight and Enhanced Risk forecasts for June, and Illinois has reported over 100 tornadoes this year, significantly exceeding its annual average. States such as Nebraska, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois are now entering their prime tornado season.
