Posted in Iowa Seasonal, Spring March 23, 2023 by

This Spring Is Forecast To Be The Most Active Tornado Season Iowa Has Seen In Years

Spring is finally here in Iowa, and that means many people’s thoughts are turning to warm weather, flower festivals, and other things that come with the end of winter. But for many residents of Iowa, especially in the prairie regions, spring also means keeping a close eye on the sky. Iowa is smack-dab in the middle of tornado country, and every year sees powerful cyclonic funnels touch down on the state. No one can ever fully predict what tornado season in Iowa will look like, but there are some indications that the 2023 season could be one of the most active in years. January saw a pair of tornadoes touch down – the earliest any have been seen in the Hawkeye State since 1967! That indicates an unsettled weather pattern – and more could be coming.

Spring has come to the Iowa prairie, and that means nicer weather - but it also means that tornado season in Iowa is beginning, and residents are keeping their eyes on the weather.
Carl Wycoff/Flickr
Iowa is in the heart of the United States' tornado region - "Tornado Alley" - and the flat terrain of the state means powerful storms can build uninterrupted.
FEMA/Wikimedia Commons
While tornado season typically begins in early spring, this January saw two tornados touch dow - and that might indicate a highly active season.
Carol VanHook/Flickr
The primary contributor to this active season is the end of the La Niña weather phenomenon, which may lead to more severe weather in the United States.
Justin1569/Wikipedia
Not all tornadoes are created equal, of course - only a small percentage build into seriously destructive storms. But they can be highly unpredictable, and government authorities encourage Iowa residents to be prepared.
NWS Louisville/Wikipedia
Iowa's weather trackers will be on the ball, tracking severe weather and alerting residents of the area before tornados can fully form.
Center for Severe Weather Research/Wikipedia

Tornado season in Iowa is upon us, and people are getting ready for what could be a volatile spring. Let us know about your tornado preparations in the comments section! You can visit the Ready Iowa website for all the information on severe weather preparedness. Fortunately, spring also brings bright and exciting things, like the Iowa Eats Food & Drink Festival.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.