Mississippi Tornadoes
Mississippi averages ~45 tornadoes per year and has been struck by some of the most consequential tornado events in US history. Peak season: March–April primary, November–December secondary.
Notable Mississippi Tornadoes with Full Details
Smithville EF5
· April 27, 2011
Virtually destroyed the small town of Smithville during the 2011 Super Outbreak. Read the full story →
Other Historic Mississippi Tornadoes
- Tupelo, MS (April 5, 1936) — F5, 216 killed. 4th deadliest US tornado ever. A young Elvis Presley survived it at age 15 months.
- Vicksburg, MS (December 5, 1953) — F5, 38 killed. Only December F5 in modern records.
- Natchez, MS (May 6, 1840) — 317 killed. Deadliest US tornado of the 19th century.
- Philadelphia, MS (April 27, 2011) — EF5, 3 killed
Key Facts About Mississippi Tornado Activity
- Mississippi has among the highest concentrations of mobile homes in the US, which drives up tornado death rates
- Nighttime tornadoes are especially common — the Rolling Fork, Smithville, and Tupelo events all struck at night
- The 2011 Super Outbreak produced 30+ tornadoes across Mississippi in a single 24-hour period
Mississippi Tornado Season
Peak activity in Mississippi: March–April primary, November–December secondary. Even outside this window, violent tornadoes are possible — no month is fully safe. Residents should have a household tornado plan year-round. See our tornado season guide → and tornado safety guide →.
→ Simulate a tornado in Mississippi on our map
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Mississippi is one of the highest-tornado-risk states in the country. Prepare before the next event: