Does Wyoming Get Tornadoes?

Understanding Wyoming’s Unique Weather Patterns

Wyoming is known for its breathtaking landscapes, open skies, and unpredictable weather. If you are planning to move to Wyoming, visit on vacation, or simply want to understand more about its weather risks, you might wonder about the possibility of tornadoes. Tornadoes are a significant concern in many parts of the United States, especially in the heart of “Tornado Alley.” But does Wyoming get tornadoes? What do you need to know about severe weather in this region?

Are Tornadoes Common in Wyoming?

Tornadoes do occur in Wyoming, but they happen less frequently than in states like Oklahoma, Kansas, or Texas. Wyoming is on the western edge of Tornado Alley. While outbreaks of severe weather can hit the state, tornado frequency varies greatly throughout the region.

• On average, Wyoming reports around 12-14 tornadoes per year.
• Most tornadoes are rated EF0 or EF1, meaning they are relatively weak compared to those in the Midwest.
• Tornadoes in Wyoming are rarely long-tracked or violent, but they can still cause property damage and injury.

Wyoming ranks low in the annual count for tornadoes compared to states with the highest number of tornadoes per year. However, every resident and traveler should understand the risks and be prepared for all types of severe weather.

When Is Tornado Season in Wyoming?

Severe weather in Wyoming, especially tornadoes, mainly happens during late spring and early summer.

• The peak tornado months are May, June, and July.
• Most tornadoes occur in the afternoon or early evening hours, between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
• Wyoming tornadoes rarely happen in the winter months.

The timing and frequency can change year to year depending on the jet stream and other weather conditions. Even if the risk is lower than in other states, it is always a good idea to pay attention during tornado season.

What Areas in Wyoming Have the Most Tornadoes?

The risk of tornadoes varies across the state. Wyoming’s eastern plains, which are flatter and more open, tend to see tornadoes more often than the mountainous western areas.

• Eastern Wyoming, including counties like Laramie, Goshen, and Platte, reports more tornadoes each year.
• Cities such as Cheyenne, Torrington, and Wheatland may experience tornado watches or warnings most often.
• Western Wyoming, with its high mountains, has a lower tornado risk due to topography and weather patterns.

Rural areas are often affected, but tornadoes can occur anywhere in the state. Urban centers may see fewer tornadoes, but everyone should be aware of severe weather risks regardless of location.

How Severe Are Tornadoes in Wyoming?

Not all tornadoes are equally strong. Tornadoes are rated on the Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale, with EF0 being weakest and EF5 being the most devastating. Fortunately, Wyoming’s tornadoes are usually on the lower end of the scale.

• Most tornadoes in Wyoming are rated EF0 or EF1, with wind speeds up to 110 mph.
• EF2 tornadoes (winds up to 135 mph) have happened, but they are rare.
• Devastating tornadoes, like EF3 or above, are extremely rare in Wyoming history.

Even weaker tornadoes can damage roofs, down trees, and cause injury. It is always best to take all tornado watches and warnings seriously.

Staying Safe During Wyoming Tornadoes

If you live in or visit Wyoming, understanding tornado safety is essential during severe weather season. While the chance of encountering a tornado is low, taking precautions can make all the difference.

• Sign up for local weather alerts through NOAA Weather Radio or your smartphone.
• Identify a safe spot indoors, ideally a basement or interior room away from windows.
• Keep an emergency kit with essentials like water, a flashlight, batteries, and non-perishable food.
• Always follow instructions from local authorities during a tornado warning.

If you are driving during a tornado warning, do not try to outrun the tornado. Seek shelter in a sturdy building or, if necessary, lie flat in a ditch while covering your head.

Why Does Wyoming Have Fewer Tornadoes Than Other States?

Wyoming’s geography plays a big role in why tornadoes are less frequent here. The state has high elevation, cooler air flows, and less low-level moisture than the central plains.

• The Rocky Mountains influence storm development and often break up severe weather systems.
• Dry air masses commonly limit thunderstorm strength.
• Occasional clashes between warm, moist air and cooler Montana or Colorado air can create strong storms, but these are isolated events.

This combination of factors makes Wyoming less ideal for producing the large, violent tornadoes seen in states further east.

Tornado Facts and Related Search Questions

Many people want to know about tornado risk when considering a move to Wyoming or before a visit during storm season. Here are answers to common questions connected to “Does Wyoming get tornadoes?”

Questions About Tornadoes in Wyoming

How often do tornadoes hit Wyoming?

Wyoming averages about 12 to 14 tornadoes per year. Some years have more, and some have fewer. Most tornadoes are small and short-lived.

Are tornadoes a big threat in Wyoming?

Tornadoes are not the state’s greatest weather threat, but they are possible. Wildfires, winter storms, and high winds are often more common and damaging in Wyoming. However, all severe weather risks should be taken seriously.

What is the worst tornado to ever hit Wyoming?

The most destructive tornado in Wyoming history was the 1987 Teton Wilderness tornado, which caused extensive forest damage but resulted in no deaths or injuries. Large, deadly tornadoes are rare in the state.

What precautions should I take in Wyoming during tornado season?

Monitor the weather, have a severe weather plan, and know the safest spot in your building. Stay indoors and away from windows during a warning, and don’t ignore alerts or outdoor sirens.

Does Wyoming belong to Tornado Alley?

Wyoming is on the far western edge of Tornado Alley. The central plains states to the east have a greater tornado risk, but Wyoming still sees occasional severe storms and tornadoes, especially in the east.

Key Takeaways About Tornadoes and Severe Weather Risk in Wyoming

Wyoming does experience tornadoes, but at a much lower frequency and intensity compared to the central parts of the United States. Eastern Wyoming is at greater risk, especially in spring and summer. Stay aware during severe weather season, prepare a safety plan, and enjoy the wonderful landscapes of the Cowboy State with confidence.