Tornadoes can happen just about anywhere and at any time, so long as conditions are optimal for one to form. With an average width of 300-500 yards, traveling as far as 50 miles, and internal wind speeds of 100-500 mph, these funnels can be violent and create mass destruction in their wakes. Tornadoes occur most frequently in the central part of the United States in the Great Plains region, including Illinois. And in 2021, weather models are already predicting an above-average tornado season.
The United States averages 1,000 tornadoes each year, with Illinois averaging at least 64 of those. However, the worst season recorded in the Prairie State's recent history was in 2006 with 124 tornadoes.
On the other end of the spectrum, no tornadoes were recorded in the years 1919 or 1933.
Two of the worst tornadoes in U.S. history had occurred in Illinois. In March 1925, there was the Tri-State tornado with 695 fatalities and in May 1917 was the Mattoon tornado that left 101 people dead. Both storms caused tens of millions of dollars in property damage as well.
According to Weather.gov, 80 percent of Illinois tornadoes happen between mid-March and June and when they occur, it's usually in the late afternoon or early evening.
The first tornado reported in Illinois this year was on March 23 in Mason County. It was an EF-0, with estimated wind speeds between 65-85 mph and traveled a mere two miles before it dispersed. Only three utility poles were knocked over but, otherwise, caused no real property damage.
However, many tornadoes can cause both severe property damage and fatalities. This photo was taken after a severe F4 tornado hit Roanoke on July 13, 2004. This tornado was so powerful that it destroyed a manufacturing plant.
According to Accuweather.com, the 2021 tornado season is expected to be higher than average with certain factors like a colder Pacific, warmer-than-normal Gulf of Mexico, and the jetstream playing their part to make it happen. So expect Illinois to have a more active tornado season this year.
To warn the public of impending danger, sirens like this one are erected throughout the Land of Lincoln. If you hear the warning, be prepared to seek shelter, take cover, and tune in to your local TV or radio station for instructions.
Have you experienced a tornado in Illinois? Please tell us about your experience in the comment section.
If you are interested in learning about destructive storms that occurred in the past, read about the nine most devastating storms to ever rip through Illinois.
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