A tornado is a violent windstorm characterized by a twisting, funnel-shaped cloud. Damage from tornadoes results primarily from high wind velocity and wind-blown debris. Tornado season generally lasts from March through August, although tornadoes can occur at any time of year.
Tornadoes can occur in any state, but are more frequent in the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest.
The States of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Texas are at greatest risk. Additionally, there are links to other sources of tornado data.