May 2026 Tornado Recap: Below Average, But Not Without Impact

MAY 2026: Meteorological spring officially ends on May 31st before giving way to meteorological summer (June-July-August). As we wrap up the season, we're taking a look back at May, typically the most active tornado month of the year in th United States, to see how this year compared to average.

Tornado Climatology

First, it's important to understand the baseline. April, May, and June, account for more than half (54%) of the average annual tornado totals in the U.S. May alone averages 268 tornadoes nationwide.

2026 vs. Average

According to the SPC this year we've had 162 tornadoes reported this May, pending data from May 31st.

That doesn't mean the month has been without impact. Several notable tornadoes occurred across the country:

• May 6 - Mississippi: An EF3 tornado tracked from Sibley to Monticello, injuring 23 people and destroying numerous homes, mobile homes, and vehicles.
  

• May 17 - Nebraska: An EF3 tornado struck near St. Libory, damaging or destroying homes and a rural housing development.

• May 19 - Texas: An EF3 tornado impacted Mineral Wells, damaging homes and businesses throughout the community.

While May 2026 was less active than average by the numbers, a few statistics stand out: Oklahoma recorded just 2 tornado reports this month, compared to its May average of 32. States that had an above average May were: Nebraska, Iowa, Wyoming, Florida, and Mississippi.

Looking at the past four years, Oklahoma has been below average in three of them. The exception was 2024, when the state recorded 54 tornadoes.

For more on what to expect for the rest of this severe weather season, be sure to join us on WeatherNation, we stream 24/7.