Tornado patterns shift due to climate change, experts advise on preparation
Climate change is altering tornado patterns in the U.S., leading experts to offer new preparation strategies for these unpredictable storms.
Cinnamon Janzer reports for the BBC.
In short:
- Tornado season is shifting in location and timing due to climate change, with peaks now seen earlier in the year.
- States like Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas are seeing fewer tornadoes, while Tennessee, Georgia, and upper Midwest states are experiencing more.
- Preparation involves staying informed through reliable sources like the National Weather Service and maintaining an emergency kit.
Key quote:
"We expect that the number of days in any given year that are favourable for tornadoes… are going to increase in the future and specifically increase earlier in the season."
— Victor Gensini, associate professor of meteorology at Northern Illinois University
Why this matters:
Research indicates that tornadoes are becoming more frequent and severe in areas outside the traditional Tornado Alley, including parts of the Southeast and Midwest. Factors such as warmer air temperatures and shifting jet streams contribute to these changes, making it more challenging to predict where tornadoes will strike next. This unpredictability poses a substantial risk to residents unfamiliar with tornado protocols, necessitating updated safety measures and public awareness campaigns.
