State climatologist Gary McManus says this year will be the latest start to the state’s tornado season on record.
“We’re going to be into May, at least, before we get our first tornado,” McManus said. He noted, since the National Weather Service began keeping records in 1950, the latest recorded start to Oklahoma’s tornado season was April 26, 1962.
By this time of year, Oklahoma has usually recorded 16-17 tornadoes. Drought and cool weather are two factors contributing to the late start in 2018.
McManus said Oklahomans should remain “weather aware” as chances for severe weather increase in May.
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