March 16, 2026, 9:57 a.m. CT
Spring is a time of extreme climate throughout the U.S., with many areas experiencing damaging thunderstorms and tornadoes.
Last spring, there was important tornado exercise, as practically two-thirds of the yr’s tornadoes occurred from March to May.
This year, AccuWeather forecasters expect fewer tornadoes, however an elevated chance of extreme thunderstorms.
AccuWeather’s tornado outlook forecast for spring 2026
Tornado counts this yr are prone to be across the historic common, however circumstances could favor repeated rounds of thunderstorms that carry damaging winds and heavy downpours, in response to AccuWeather.
AccuWeather’s long-range forecast is predicting 1,050 to 1,250 tornadoes throughout the U.S. this yr. The historic common for tornadoes in the U.S. is 1,225.
While tornado counts might be decrease this yr, extreme storms can nonetheless ship damaging impacts.
When is tornado season in Louisiana? What to learn about Dixie Alley
Peak tornado season in Louisiana lasts from March by May, in response to the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP).
Louisiana is additionally part of “Dixie Alley,” which is a time period used for areas of the South which might be susceptible to robust, violent tornadoes. Peak season inside Dixie Alley happens in each spring and fall, says Ground Zero Storm Shelters.
AccuWeather’s 2026 extreme storm outlook this spring
Storms this spring are anticipated to hit the toughest throughout March and April from the japanese Plains into the Mississippi Valley, which incorporates Louisiana, and the western Ohio Valley, in response to AccuWeather.
Storm winds can knock down bushes and energy strains and hail could cause important property harm. For 2026, AccuWeather is anticipating the very best hail threat from Texas to Alabama.
Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and e mail at PTyler@Gannett.com
