Illinois has already broken its annual tornado record, and the calendar has only just reached mid-July.
According to Illinois State Climatologist Trent Ford, the state recorded 173 tornadoes through the end of June, surpassing the previous annual record of 142 tornadoes, which was set last year in 2025.
June alone accounted for at least 65 tornadoes, making it one of the most active months for severe weather in recent state history. Among the most destructive storms were the EF-3 tornadoes that struck Effingham and Jefferson counties, causing fatalities and widespread damage.
The active severe weather season coincided with one of Illinois’ wettest Junes on record. Persistent rounds of heavy rainfall led to flooding across portions of central Illinois, covering roads, farmland, and low-lying areas.
Not every part of the state experienced the same conditions. While central and northern Illinois dealt with repeated storms and excessive rainfall, southern Illinois remained considerably drier than average throughout the month.
Looking ahead, climatologists say July may begin with temperatures that are slightly cooler than normal and additional opportunities for rainfall before a return to hotter summer weather later in the month.
The record-setting tornado season underscores an exceptionally active first half of 2026, with Illinois experiencing frequent rounds of severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, large hail, flooding rains, and an unprecedented number of tornadoes before the year’s midpoint.