History and preparation for tornadoes and spring storms in Texas

By Murray Montgomery

Tornadoes are a natural disaster that has caused significant damage and loss of life throughout history. Texas is no stranger to these destructive forces of nature, with a long history of tornadoes affecting the state. 

This article will explore the history of tornadoes in Texas, including some of the most notable and devastating storms to hit the state.

Texas has a tornado season that typically runs from March through May, with occasional tornadoes occurring throughout the year. The state’s geography and climate make it particularly vulnerable to tornadoes. 

Additionally, the Gulf of Mexico’s warm, moist air often collides with cold, dry air from the north, creating the perfect conditions for tornado formation.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the peak month for tornadoes in Texas is April, with an average of 41 tornadoes occurring during this month over the past 30 years. May is the second most active month for tornadoes in Texas, with an average of 33 tornadoes.

The NOAA has compiled a list of the top 10 worst tornadoes to hit Texas, since 1900, and some of the locations may surprise the reader.

Number one on the list is the Waco tornado and it’s consider the deadliest one in Texas history. It hit Waco  on May 11, 1953. The massive E5 storm killed 114 people and injured 597.

Number two happened on May 18, 1902, the second-ranked tornado hit the town of Goliad and the NOAA noted that it actually tied the Waco twister with the deaths of 114 people. It was second only because it had less injuries than the number one storm.

The Goliad tornado was rated as an F4 and destroyed many of the town’s buildings.

Number three on the list was the Rocksprings tornado that hit on April 12, 1927. This monster was rated as an E5 storm that killed 74 people and injured 205. It was a mile wide and stayed on the ground for over 35 miles.

Here is the last seven on the list:

* Glazier Higgins-Higgin Woodward 4.9.1947

* Wichita Falls 4.10.1979

* The Frost Tornado 5.6.1930

* Karnes-Dewitt Tornado 5.4.1930

* The Zephyr Tornado 5.30.1909

* The Saragosa Tornado 5.22.1987

* The Jarrell Tornado 5.27.1997

Spring storms and tornadoes can occur at any time of the day or night in Texas, but they are more likely to occur in the late afternoon and early evening. This is because the sun’s warmth during the day creates instability in the atmosphere, which can lead to the formation of thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Severe storms can occur at any time of the year in Texas, so it’s essential to be prepared and stay informed about weather conditions throughout the year. 

The NOAA recommends having a plan in place for severe weather, including knowing where to take shelter in case of a tornado, and staying tuned to local weather reports and alerts.