Tracking destructive and deadly tornadoes in the US, in maps and charts

CNN - May 16th, 2025

This year's tornado season in the United States has started at an accelerated pace, with the total number of storms reported so far outpacing the 15-year average. The National Weather Service, along with the Storm Prediction Center, has logged numerous severe weather events, particularly highlighting clusters of tornadoes in the Midwest. These storms have led to significant property damage and fatalities, as they do every year, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration noting that nearly 70 people are killed annually by tornadoes on average. Recent data from CNN analysis shows these events plotted across a 25-mile hexagonal grid, providing a visualization of their spread across the contiguous United States.

Tornadoes are a common phenomenon in the U.S., with more than 1,000 typically occurring each year, primarily during the spring and summer months. The regions most affected include the Deep South, Great Plains, and Midwest, areas historically prone to such severe weather. The impact of these storms is substantial, costing billions in damages and loss of life. The 2011 tornado season remains one of the deadliest, with 553 lives lost, including over 150 in a single Missouri outbreak. The current trend suggests a potentially severe season, necessitating preparedness and awareness across vulnerable regions. The ongoing tracking and analysis of these storms are crucial for mitigating their impact and ensuring public safety.

Noaa National Weather Service Midwest Tornadoes Storm Prediction Center Severe Weather

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RATING

8.2

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a well-researched and factual account of tornado activity in the United States, with a strong emphasis on accuracy and clarity. It effectively communicates key information about tornado frequency, geographic distribution, and historical impacts, making it a valuable resource for readers interested in severe weather. The use of credible sources enhances the article's reliability, though it could benefit from more explicit source attribution and transparency regarding data analysis methodologies. While the article is timely and relevant, its impact and engagement potential could be improved by incorporating more interactive elements or diverse perspectives. Overall, the article succeeds in raising awareness about tornadoes and their effects, contributing positively to public understanding of these natural disasters.

Accuracy

The article provides a largely accurate account of tornado activity in the United States. It states that more than 1,000 tornadoes occur annually, which aligns with historical data that confirms this average. The claim about tornadoes causing billions in damage and resulting in scores of deaths is supported by established reports from authoritative sources like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Furthermore, the article correctly identifies the spring and summer months as peak tornado seasons in regions like the Deep South, Great Plains, and Midwest, which are known for their susceptibility to such storms. However, while the article accurately references the 2011 tornado outbreak as particularly deadly, it could benefit from more precise data to substantiate the claim about the accelerated start of the current tornado season, which is somewhat generalized without specific figures.

Balance

The article maintains a balanced perspective by focusing on factual reporting about tornado occurrences and their impacts. It does not exhibit overt bias or favoritism towards any particular viewpoint. However, it primarily centers on the statistical and geographic aspects of tornadoes without delving into potential policy responses or preventive measures that could provide a more comprehensive view. Including expert opinions or contrasting perspectives on how to mitigate tornado damage might enhance the balance of the article. Despite this, the piece successfully avoids sensationalism, sticking to the presentation of data and trends.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, concise language that is accessible to a general audience. It logically presents information about tornado frequency, geographic distribution, and historical context without overwhelming the reader with technical jargon. The use of maps and charts, although not directly visible in the text, is suggested as a tool for enhancing understanding, which aids in clarity. The piece maintains a neutral tone throughout, ensuring that the information is presented straightforwardly and without ambiguity.

Source quality

The article references credible sources such as the National Weather Service and the Storm Prediction Center, which are authoritative bodies in meteorological reporting. By relying on these sources, the article benefits from a high level of credibility and reliability. However, the piece could improve by explicitly citing these sources within the text or providing direct links to the data or reports being discussed. This would enhance transparency and allow readers to verify the information independently. The lack of direct quotes or named experts slightly reduces the perceived authority of the article.

Transparency

The article provides a clear overview of tornado trends and impacts but lacks detailed transparency regarding its methodology for data collection and analysis. While it mentions a CNN analysis, it does not explain how this analysis was conducted or the specific criteria used. Additionally, the article could benefit from more explicit acknowledgment of any potential biases or limitations in the data presented. Offering more context about the sources of information and how the data was compiled would improve the article's transparency.