This was the deadliest U.S. tornado season on record. During the spring, violent tornadoes killed 250 people in the Midwest and South when severe thunderstorms tracked more than 750 miles, and an F5 tornado struck Gainesville, Georgia. In September, the New York and New England areas were struck by four tornadoes that killed 486.
1995
Tornado Alley was hit hard in 1995, with Oklahoma sustaining heavy damage from 2 major outbreaks in May. The outbreaks produced nearly 100 tornadoes and resulted in 18 deaths and more than 100 injuries. Later that summer, a string of tornadoes ripped through Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania over the course of 24 hours.
2013
The central and southern United States were impacted by a record-setting outbreak of tornadoes in late April and early May. Several significant and historic tornadoes occurred, including an EF5 tornado that devastated portions of Moore, Oklahoma. At least 148 tornadoes were reported over a 4-day span, 70 of which were EF2 intensity or greater.
2011
The most recent year to hold the title of deadliest tornado season, and the second-deadliest in U.S. history. With 1,557 tornadoes across 33 states, 2011 was the most active on record. An especially powerful EF5 tornado struck Joplin, Missouri causing catastrophic devastation and killing more than 160 people.
2010
A 6-day outbreak in late April caused catastrophic damage in Alabama and Mississippi. An F5 tornado moved across Tuscaloosa, Alabama and an EF4 caused major destruction in Smithville, Mississippi. The outbreaks resulted in over 350 deaths.