Illinois Smashes Yearly Tornado Record in 2026

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27 Jun 2026 1:10 AM

We're only half way through 2026 and Illinois has already broken its record for the most tornadoes in a single year. According to the Illinois State Climatologist, the Land of Lincoln averages 54 tornadoes each year (1991-2020 data). As of June 21, the Storm Prediction Center has the count at 196.

We spoke with Trent Ford, the Illinois State Climatologist, about why the state has seen an increase in tornadoes. See the full interview:

The previous record was 142, set recently in 2024. In 2025, there was still more than double the yearly average. Last year saw 126 tornadoes in Illinois.

Courtesy: Illinois State Climatologist

It's not surprising that June is an active month in Illinois. 63% of their tornadoes come between April, May and June.

Courtesy: Illinois State Climatologist

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