Killer Tornadoes Are Becoming Increasingly Frequent In These States

Scientists are warning that southern US states, particularly Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee, will likely see an uptick in the number of killer tornados that occur.

By Iqra Butt | Published

killer tornados

Experts are warning the public about the increase in killer tornadoes in southern states such as Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee. These tornadoes are expected to be dangerous and cause destruction. Experts suspect these tornadoes are a result of global warming.

Research from the American Meteorological Society forecasts that in coming years there will be an increase in supercells. The research also suggests that the area and seasonal time frame these storms happen in will see an increase. Needless to say, this is disastrous. 

The United States National Weather Service defines a supercell as a unique type of thunderstorm that can produce severe weather. They bring with them damaging winds with hail and killer tornadoes. The National Weather Service notes that they can last up to several hours. 

NPR reports that supercells are nature’s ultimate storms. The fact that one of the least common types of storms is becoming more frequent could be concerning for some, especially those in the central part of the United States. In fact, the American Meteorological Society coined this area as “tornado alley”.

Natural disasters have always posed a threat to communities around the world, but more recently, their impact has become increasingly severe. This is resulting in widespread devastation and loss of life. Just this week, a killer tornado like no other in the state’s history ripped through Mississippi, reports The Washington Post.

The supercell-induced tornado traveled a devastating 59.4 miles across the Rolling Fork, Silver City areas according to the National Weather Service. That’s in the top one percent of distances traveled by tornadoes! This particularly strong tornado is part of a recent uptick in tornado frequency, almost doubling historical reported averages, the National Centers for Environmental Information accounts.

ABC News reports that there were at least 27 tornadoes across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee. At least 21 people died in Mississippi. These killer tornadoes are to be taken seriously and it is vital to find safe shelter

While there are many factors that contribute to the severity of natural disasters, one of the most significant is climate change. As the Earth’s temperature continues to rise, weather patterns are becoming more extreme and unpredictable. This leads to more frequent and devastating natural disasters. 

According to NPR, Walker Ashley, a professor of meteorology and disaster, said that what’s likely occurring is that as the climate warms, the Southwest U.S. is getting hotter and drier while the Gulf of Mexico, which contains moisture, is also getting hotter. Then the air coming from there is getting “juicier and unstable.”  Due to the hot air, air masses are not colliding in their normal location, but farther eastward towards Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

These killer tornadoes can cause significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, often resulting in millions of dollars in damages. In addition to the economic impact, tornadoes can also cause significant human toll, with many injuries and fatalities. The impact of tornadoes can be especially devastating in rural areas, where residents may lack access to emergency services and may be more vulnerable to the effects of severe weather.

By better understanding the impact of climate change on natural disasters, we can work towards developing solutions. This will help us to protect communities and reduce the human and economic toll of these devastating events. Familiarize yourself with the safety precautions and procedures outlined by state or national standards if you experience any of these natural disasters.