Just because we are deep into winter, and spring is still a month away, does not mean Kentucky can't get tornadoes. In fact, tornadoes have hit the state in February more than 40 times since 2010.

What You Need To Know

  •  Tornadoes can happen in February

  •  Since 2010, over 40 tornadoes have affected the state during February

  • None have been rated EF4 or EF5

Typically, when we think of tornadoes, we think of of the springtime clash of warm, humid air and cold, dry weather that sometimes results in severe thunderstorms. But those can happen in February as well. Yes, they are typically less frequent than during the spring, but they do happen. 

According to the Midwest Regional Climate Center, over 70 February tornadoes affected Kentucky between 1950 and 2022. Over 40 of those happened since 2010.

Map of February tornadoes in Kentucky since 1950. (Midwest Regional Climate Center)

Here's a breakdown of their damage ratings:

  • EF0: 19 tornadoes
  • EF1: 31 tornadoes
  • EF2: 21 tornadoes
  • EF3: 5 tornadoes
  • EF4: 0 tornadoes
  • EF5: 0 tornadoes

February tornadoes have injured over 75 people and killed at least 10.

These numbers should be a strong reminder to make sure you have your plan of action, as well as a severe weather kit, ready to go, no matter the time of year.

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.