Illinois has surpassed 200 tornadoes in 2026, shattering the previous state record of 142 set in 2024.
Illinois State Climatologist Trent Ford said 15 tornadoes have been recorded in August alone as he continues compiling a timeline of what has been an exceptionally active year for severe weather.
The activity began with an outbreak in mid-February, when 14 tornadoes were reported across southeastern Illinois from Effingham County to the Indiana border.
March brought approximately 30 tornadoes, including outbreaks along the Interstate 70 corridor from the St. Louis Metro East area toward Effingham and storms stretching from LaSalle to Kankakee.
April was even more active, producing 70 tornadoes across Illinois. Many occurred in central Illinois, including Logan and Tazewell counties. An EF2 tornado also struck the Lena area.
May provided a brief break, with just one tornado recorded statewide.
Severe weather returned in June, however, with 90 tornadoes reported. Central and southeastern Illinois were again among the hardest-hit areas. Ford said an EF3 tornado developed north of Peoria near Washburn before producing damage in the Dwight and Streator areas.
Ten tornadoes were recorded in July, including several in the Chicago area.
Another 15 tornadoes have been recorded so far in August, with most occurring in northern Illinois.
With several months remaining in 2026, the state’s tornado count has already exceeded the previous record by more than 50.