America's Top Tornado State in 2026 Isn't Texas or Oklahoma

An unlikely state has emerged as the leader in tornado counts this year while the traditional danger zone has been relatively quiet. Here is a look at how the tornado numbers are trending this season in the U.S.

Illinois Tops the List of Most Tornadoes in the U.S. This Year

Illinois continues to lead the way with tornadoes this year. As of the end of July, the state has already notched more tornadoes than any other year in recorded history. Conversely, the typical hot spots in "tornado alley" have lagged well behind the historical average.

The state of Illinois eclipsed its annual record of tornado counts in June. As of June 17, the state had already fielded 164 tornado reports. According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center (SPC), there were 221 reports of tornadoes by July 31. The greatest volume of tornadoes spun up in March, April, and June.

Indiana is firmly in second place by the end of July with 89 tornado reports. The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed that Indiana has also seen a record-breaking season. Mississippi, Missouri, and Iowa are also in the top five.

What is also notable for this year's season is the lack of activity across the historical tornado alley states of Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. In an average year, Illinois would have only seen 52 reports while Texas would have recorded more than 100 by this time of the season. However, the Lone Star State has only reported 58 twisters.