As the severe weather season commences, thunderstorms and tornadoes are becoming more frequent across the United States, with the most severe storms potentially occurring beyond the traditional Tornado Alley.

By Brian Lada, AccuWeather meteorologist and senior content editor

Published Mar 5, 2025 7:50 AM CDT | Updated Mar 5, 2025 9:04 AM CDT

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AccuWeather's severe weather and tornado forecast01:0004:04

AccuWeather's Long-Range Expert, Paul Pastelok, provides insights into the severe weather anticipated this spring.

As spring unfolds, it marks the height of the severe weather season in the United States. Forecasters indicate that the most intense storms and tornadoes may occur outside the conventional Tornado Alley.

Throughout March, April, and May, conditions become conducive to severe weather. Cold air from Canada meets warm, moist air from the Gulf, creating the potential for dangerous thunderstorms to develop across the central and eastern U.S.

2025 Severe Storms Likely to Intensify East of Tornado Alley

"This spring, the Mississippi Valley may experience more severe storms than Tornado Alley," explained Paul Pastelok, AccuWeather Long-Range Expert.

The concentration of storms in this region is attributed to a large, persistent high-pressure area over the Southwest, which may restrict thunderstorms in parts of the Plains. Additionally, unusually warm Gulf waters will significantly influence severe weather patterns.

Further north, early spring may resemble winter, reducing the likelihood of damaging thunderstorms and tornadoes compared to last year when severe weather appeared earlier in these areas.

"The presence of cool, stable air moving across the Great Lakes will decrease the risk of widespread severe weather this spring in the eastern Ohio Valley, mid-Atlantic, and Northeast," Pastelok noted.

Increase in Tornadoes and Storms Expected in April and May

"Severe weather may extend into the central Plains during April, but the primary focus remains the Mississippi, Tennessee, and western Ohio valleys," Pastelok stated.

By May, thunderstorms will become more prevalent as a shift in the overall weather pattern allows for increased storm activity across the Midwest, mid-Atlantic, and parts of the traditional Tornado Alley.

The likelihood of long-lasting, destructive storms, known as derechos, will also rise late in the spring and into summer. Derechos, often referred to as "inland hurricanes," are characterized by their intense winds and widespread damage.

"While it is early to pinpoint their formation, we anticipate the central Plains and mid-Mississippi Valley based on current pattern forecasts and research," Pastelok mentioned.

A tornado potentially forming near Sulphur Springs, Texas. (AccuWeather/Tony Laubach)

(AccuWeather/Tony Laubach)

Projected Tornado Activity for 2025

The 2024 tornado season was among the worst on record, with 1,855 tornadoes, including over 500 in May. The upcoming season is not expected to be as severe but may still exceed the historical average.

As usual, severe weather in 2025 will intensify from March through May. AccuWeather predicts 75 to 150 tornadoes in March, 200 to 300 in April, and 250 to 350 in May, all near or above the 30-year historical average.

Overall, 1,300 to 1,450 tornadoes are anticipated for the year, compared to the historical average of 1,225.

Now is the time for individuals nationwide to prepare for the possibility of a tornado, which includes having a safety plan and an emergency severe weather kit ready. While the majority of tornadoes in 2025 are expected to concentrate in the central and southern U.S., they can occur anywhere in the country.

In 2024, tornadoes were reported in every state across the contiguous U.S., except for Nevada, Vermont, and Maine.

Ensure you download the free AccuWeather app to receive essential weather alerts for your location during severe weather events.

Source of info credit - Severe weather, tornado forecast for US in 2025