Illinois leads nation in number of tornadoes

More tornadoes touched down in Illinois during a recent 12-month span than in any other state.

That’s according to recent data released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration that shows 115 tornadoes touched down in Illinois from May 1, 2022, through April 30, 2023.

Alabama saw 110 tornadoes during that same time frame, while Texas recorded 105, NOAA records show.

“Our state is leading the country so far this calendar year, as well,” said David King, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service office in Romeoville. “It’s just been a really active year.”

King said a contributing factor to this year’s tally is a high-pressure system settled over the desert southwest portion of the U.S. and a low-pressure system that has hovered over Ontario, Canada, for much of the year, placing Illinois right in the middle of those competing weather systems and wind flow.

NOAA figures show the 115 tornadoes recorded…