Iowa’s 39 EF1 tornadoes set single-year record, NWS says

Iowa’s violent and tumultuous weather has set a new mark.

The 122 confirmed tornadoes so far in 2024 are a state record, the National Weather Service in Des Moines recently revealed. That’s two more than the total for all of 2004 (122). Ninety-eight tornadoes touched down in April and May, with each month tallying 49 local tornadoes.

More: Iowa has seen more tornadoes than most states in 2024. Will fall bring more destruction?

Consistent power also sets a record

The National Weather Service also noted that 2024 has already broken the record for the most EF1 tornadoes in any year on record (39). This year has witnessed the most EF3 (4) and EF4 (2) tornadoes since 1999.

The 49 tornadoes in both May and April are tied for the third most tornadoes in a single month in Iowa’s history. December 2021 produced 63 tornadoes, which is the Iowa single-month record.

A widespread derecho tore across Iowa in December 2021, producing 63 tornadoes, a single-day Iowa record.

May 2004 produced 57 tornadoes, the second-most in history.

Wide-reaching devastation

The widest tornado in 2024 was the Minden tornado, which reached 1.1 miles at its widest point, while the longest tornado was in Greenfield at 42.4 miles.

The Greenfield tornado was the most devastating, which reached an exceedingly rare 300 mph wind speed. The twister destroyed at least 153 homes in a single minute and caused 35 injuries and five fatalities.

The Minden tornado in April also caused a fatality and was one of two Iowa tornadoes to travel longer than 40 miles.

More: Greenfield tornado damaged, destroyed at least 153 Iowa homes in roughly one minute

Technological advancements improve tornado data

The National Weather Service said they can more accurately track tornadoes in 2024 thanks to better technology and a “more active storm spotting and chasing network,” which may contribute to higher totals. The organization also said improved radar technology helps staff track twisters.

“NWS Des Moines expresses deep sympathy for all those impacted by the devastating tornadoes this year,” the NWS Facebook post said.

Ryan Magalhães is a reporter for the Register. Reach them at rmagalhaes@dmreg.com.