Tornado season in Wisconsin typically runs from April to August, with the peak months in June and July. After a severe weather outbreak last week, we're getting closer to our seasonal tornado average.

What You Need To Know

  • Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes per year

  • The severe weather outbreak on June 15 spawned eight confirmed tornadoes

  • About 80% of tornadoes observed in Wisconsin are rated EF-0 to EF-1

The 2022 tornado season in Wisconsin is off to a busy start after two severe weather outbreaks, one on May 9 and the other on June 15.

Statewide tornado average

In a typical year, Wisconsin averages about 23 tornadoes. So far, in 2022, our statewide count is 15. With a couple of months left to go in our severe weather season, we're inching our way closer to that average.

In 2021, our tornado season was significantly above average, with 41 confirmed tornadoes.

This year's tornado breakdown

The first tornado of the year occurred on March 5, in Dunkirk, Wisconsin, which is in Dane County. It was only rated an EF-1.

Yet, most of Wisconsin's tornadoes have occurred during two severe weather outbreaks. The first spawned four tornadoes in the northwestern part of the state on May 9.

On June 15, a second outbreak occurred. A powerful line of thunderstorms swept across the Badger State, where eight tornadoes were confirmed. Damage surveys conducted afterwards that two EF-2 tornadoes spun up, one in Wyeville and another in Silver Cliff.

Tornado safety

Since we are still in the peak of tornado season, it is always important to have a severe weather plan with your family, whether you're at home or away.

Remember that the main goal during a tornado warning is to put as many walls as possible between you and the tornado. Also, get to the lowest level of your home- this is where you will be the safest.

Be sure to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts so you're never caught off-guard.

Being prepared and having a plan is crucial when severe weather strikes.