Months of Peak Tornado Occurrence

In the southern states, tornado frequency peaks in March through May; while in the northern states, peak frequency is during the summer months. Along the gulf coast, a secondary tornado maximum occurs during the fall. In the western states, the total number of tornadoes is higher than indicated. Sparse population reduces the number reported. Map illustrating months of peak tornado activity by state (1950-1991). (NOAA/NWS)