Illinois’ record tornado count continues to grow

Eight tornadoes that touched down in Illinois last week helped establish Illinois as the nation’s leader for tornadic activity this year.

Funnel clouds touched down in Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, Downers Grove and four other suburbs on July 27, said meteorologist Zachary Yack of the National Weather Service. One hit downstate Illinois that day, too.

Those storms bring the total of tornado touchdowns in Illinois this year to 191 — more than any other state so far.

“It’s impressive that we’ve done it,” Yack said.

The National Weather Service began recording tornado data in 1950.

Illinois’ previous record — 142 — was set in 2024 and likely was broken June 11 when 25 tornadoes were confirmed in the Prairie State, Yack said.

Just because more tornadoes have been confirmed this year doesn’t actually mean more are forming than usual, however, Yack added.

Improvements in technology and survey techniques are helping weather experts more accurately determine whether storm damage is the result of tornadoes or straight-line winds, he said.