Does Minnesota Have Tornadoes?
Tornadoes, along with thunderstorms and other severe weather events, are some of the most destructive natural disasters that can wreak havoc in a matter of seconds.
They are unpredictable, fast-moving, and can cause significant damage to properties and loss of lives. However, not all states in the United States experience tornadoes. Let’s take a look at Does Minnesota Have Tornadoes and what residents can do to prepare for them.
What is a Tornado?
Definition and Characteristics
A tornado is a rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground. They are often characterized by their funnel shape and can move at speeds of up to 300 miles per hour.
Their strength can easily take down buildings. They are most common in the central and southern regions of the United States but can happen anywhere in the world.
Typical Time and Location of Tornadoes
In the United States, tornadoes can occur at any time of the year, but they are most common during spring and early summer.
They often occur in an area known as Tornado Alley, which includes Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska, the Lower Mississippi River valley, among other states.U.S. Air Force meteorologists Major Ernest J. Fawbush coined the phrase “tornado alley” in 1952.
Tornadoes can also occur near lakes, rivers and other bodies of water, where the warm and cold air interact.
How Do Tornadoes Form?
Tornadoes form from thunderstorms, which are weather systems characterized by lightning, thunder, and rain. Tornadoes usually form when there is a clash between warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico and cooler air from Canada.
When these two air masses meet, they create instability in the atmosphere, causing the air to spin and forming a tornado.
If we ever want to see this in action, safely, there is a great display at the Minnesota Science Museum in St Paul.
Does Minnesota Experience Tornadoes?
Overview of Tornadoes in Minnesota
Minnesota is not typically considered a state that experiences frequent tornadoes, but tornadoes have occurred in the state many times in the past. Tornadoes are most common in southern Minnesota but have also been reported in central and western regions of the state, as well. They’ve even recked havoc in Minneapolis.
Tornado Statistics for Minnesota
According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), between 1950 and 2019, there were 2,644 tornadoes reported in Minnesota.
These tornadoes resulted in 128 fatalities and 2,577 injuries. On average, Minnesota experiences about 27 tornadoes per year, most of which occur between May and September. The most tornadoes Minnesota experienced in a year was 123 in 2010.
Tornado Trends Over the Years in Minnesota
When comparing tornado activity in Minnesota over the years, there is no significant upward or downward trend. However, meteorologists have noted that tornadoes in Minnesota have been occurring more frequently in recent years, especially in the southern region of the state.
Data from NOAA shows that between 1991 and 2019, the number of tornadoes in southern Minnesota increased from an average of 11 per year to 29 per year.
What Areas in Minnesota are Prone to Tornadoes?
Tornadoes in Southern Minnesota
Southern Minnesota is the area of the state most prone to tornadoes. This is because the south is closer to Tornado Alley, where warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico often meets with cooler air from Canada, creating the instability necessary for tornado formation. When this happens, the air begins to rotate and can rapidly form a tornado.
Tornadoes in Central Minnesota
Central Minnesota is less prone to tornadoes than southern Minnesota, but it is still vulnerable to severe weather events. In May 1998, a tornado hit St. Peter, a city in south-central Minnesota, causing significant damage to homes, businesses, and the Gustavus Adolphus College. There were no fatalities, but 37 people were injured, and the tornado caused over $100 million in damage.
Tornadoes in Western Minnesota
Western Minnesota is also vulnerable to severe weather events, including tornadoes. In August 2007, a tornado hit the town of Clinton, located in the western part of the state. The tornado destroyed several homes and businesses, but there were no fatalities.
What is the Impact of Tornadoes in Minnesota?
Tornado Damage in Minnesota
Tornadoes can cause significant damage to properties, including homes, businesses, and infrastructure. In Minnesota, tornadoes have caused billions of dollars in damage over the years. The most significant tornado damage in Minnesota was in 2010, when several strong tornadoes hit the state, causing an estimated $227 million in damage.
Tornadoes and Lives Lost in Minnesota
Tornadoes can also be deadly. Between 1950 and 2019, tornadoes in Minnesota resulted in 128 fatalities and thousands of injuries. The most significant tornado-related loss of life in Minnesota occurred in the 1960s when a tornado touched down in Tracy and killed nine people.
The Role of Media in Tornado Preparedness in Minnesota
The media also plays a significant role in tornado preparedness in Minnesota. They often provide updates on severe weather events and issue tornado warnings to alert residents in affected areas. Fo those that have cut out cable, cellphones are the most accurate at providing sever weather warnings.
How Can Minnesota Residents Prepare for Tornadoes?
Preparing a Tornado Emergency Kit
One way Minnesota residents can prepare for tornadoes is by creating a tornado emergency kit. This kit should include essentials such as water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and batteries. The emergency kit should be kept in a safe, easily accessible location in the home or shelter.
Identifying a Safe Shelter During a Tornado
It’s also essential to identify a safe shelter where you can take cover during a tornado. This can include a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest level of the home. If you live in an apartment building, seek shelter in the lowest level of the building’s interior. Avoid windows and exterior walls.
If you are staying in a hotel, or somewhere other than home check with the front desk, look for signs posted around for emergency shelter.
Understanding Tornado Watches and Warnings
Finally, understanding tornado watches and warnings can also help Minnesota residents prepare for severe weather events. A tornado watch means that conditions are right for a tornado to form. A tornado warning means that a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar in the area. It’s important to stay tuned to local news and weather alerts during severe weather and follow instructions from local authorities.
Does Minnesota Have Tornadoes?
Yes, Minnesota does have tornadoes. Although tornadoes are not as common in Minnesota as they are in other states, it’s still important for residents to be prepared for severe weather events. With the right preparation and knowledge, residents can protect themselves and their families during tornado season.
