Severe storms on the way for much of the East Coast this Monday
Damaging wind gusts, flash flooding and even tornadoes could cause serious problems from Florida all the way up to New York.
Spring is a time of severe weather across the U.S., with many regions experiencing damaging thunderstorms and tornadoes.
Last spring, there was significant tornado activity, as nearly two-thirds of the year’s tornadoes occurred from March to May.
This year, AccuWeather forecasters are expecting fewer tornadoes, but an increased likelihood of severe thunderstorms.
AccuWeather’s tornado outlook forecast for spring 2026
Tornado counts this year are likely to be around the historical average, but conditions may favor repeated rounds of thunderstorms that bring damaging winds and heavy downpours, according to AccuWeather.
AccuWeather’s long-range forecast is predicting 1,050 to 1,250 tornadoes across the U.S. this year. The historical average for tornadoes in the U.S. is 1,225.
While tornado counts could be lower this year, severe storms can still deliver damaging impacts.
When is tornado season in Louisiana? What to know about Dixie Alley
Peak tornado season in Louisiana lasts from March through May, according to the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP).
Louisiana is also a part of “Dixie Alley,” which is a term used for areas of the South that are vulnerable to strong, violent tornadoes. Peak season within Dixie Alley occurs in both spring and fall, says Ground Zero Storm Shelters.
AccuWeather’s 2026 severe storm outlook this spring
Storms this spring are expected to hit the hardest during March and April from the eastern Plains into the Mississippi Valley, which includes Louisiana, and the western Ohio Valley, according to AccuWeather.
Storm winds can knock down trees and power lines and hail can cause significant property damage. For 2026, AccuWeather is expecting the highest hail risk 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 email at [email protected]
