Summary
Forecasters from AccuWeather predict that the 2026 tornado season in the United States will not be as intense as last year, but large areas still face risks from severe storms. Meteorologists highlight that while there might be fewer tornadoes, the threat from other weather events like strong winds and flash floods remains high, especially across the mid-Mississippi Valley and western Ohio Valley.
Key Facts
- The 2026 tornado season is expected to have fewer tornadoes than last year.
- Changes in weather patterns could mean more thunderstorms with damaging winds and heavy rain.
- The mid-Mississippi Valley and western Ohio Valley may experience severe weather in March and April.
- Northern Plains and Midwest might see severe storms later in April and May.
- The Northeast might not face severe thunderstorms until May or early summer.
- Strong winds and flash flooding pose a larger threat than tornadoes in many areas.
- Derecho events, which are large wind storms, might be more frequent later in spring and summer.
