May’s tornado count in the U.S. has started slowly, but that may change next week as a shift in the weather pattern could bring more severe weather to the nation’s midsection. Although there have been scattered severe thunderstorms in the South and East recently, May has seen a relatively slow start in terms of tornado activity. This is due to a clogged jet stream pattern that has hindered the development of stronger tornadoes. However, the pattern is forecasted to shift next week, with a southward plunge of the jet stream bringing warm and humid air north from the Gulf into the Plains, creating conditions more favorable for severe thunderstorms. The timing and extent of the severe weather threat next week are not yet clear, but it is important to stay informed and prepared for potential severe weather events.
Dman, a senior meteorologist at weather.com, has been reporting on national and international weather since 1996, with a particular interest in extreme and unusual weather phenomena. Connect with him on Bluesky, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook.
