Since December 27, 2024, a series of powerful storms has struck the southern United States, triggering multiple tornadoes. On Friday and Saturday, over 30 tornadoes were reported from Texas to Georgia. According to the National Weather Service, at least 45 reports of tornado-related damage were received in states such as Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia.
The storms and tornadoes claimed the lives of four people. Local authorities reported that many homes and schools were severely damaged or destroyed. Photos and videos shared on social media show scattered debris from homes, uprooted trees, and power poles lying across streets and lawns.
As of Sunday, December 29, more than 150,000 homes and businesses across eight states remained without power, according to PowerOutage.us. Flight tracking website FlightAware reported that more than 20,000 flights were delayed or canceled across the U.S. on Saturday and Sunday.
In Texas, multiple tornadoes of varying intensities were recorded, including two EF-3 tornadoes, one EF-2 tornado, two EF-1 tornadoes, and one EF-0 tornado. In Montgomery County, between fifty and one hundred homes were damaged, trees were uprooted, and power lines were downed. At least two people sustained serious injuries and were hospitalized.
In North Carolina, severe weather caused the closure of two roads in the western part of the state, a region that had previously been devastated by Hurricane Helen.
Tornadoes are rare in December in the U.S., with an average of only about forty per month. However, December 2024 has seen a notable surge in out-of-season tornado activity. Since the beginning of the year, 1,783 tornadoes have been reported, significantly exceeding the average of 1,347.
It is important to note that not only is the frequency of tornadoes increasing in various regions, but their characteristics are also deviating significantly from the norm. This trend is driven by rising global temperatures and humidity levels, which contribute to the development of more intense storms often accompanied by tornadoes.
The underlying reasons for these changes were thoroughly explained in a scientific report presented at the forum "Global Crisis. The Responsibility". Understanding these developments is crucial, and the forum provides valuable insights into the state of the planet and the factors driving these transformations.
Publication of this material provides an opportunity for open discussion and does not in itself imply institutional endorsement, confirmation, or scientific verification of the views expressed. The material does not constitute an official statement, expert opinion, or professional advice.