🌪️ Tornado Simulator

North Dakota Tornadoes

North Dakota averages 20 tornadoes per year. The state's northern position on Tornado Alley makes summer tornadoes possible. The deadliest event was the 1957 Fargo F5 that killed 13.

North Dakota Tornado Statistics

• Average tornadoes per year: ~20
• Peak season: June-August
• Historical F5: 1957 Fargo

Notable North Dakota Tornado Events

June 20, 1957 Fargo F5

The deadliest tornado in North Dakota history. F5 struck Fargo. 13 killed, extensive damage. Full story →

June 24, 2003 Manchester Outbreak

Multiple significant tornadoes across the state.

Why North Dakota?

Northern Great Plains

North Dakota extends the Great Plains north. Same setup as Minnesota and northern states.

Summer Peak

Unlike southern states, North Dakota's peak is summer.

Gulf Moisture

Summer thermodynamics bring Gulf moisture into the state.

Regional North Dakota Risk

Eastern North Dakota

Fargo, Grand Forks. Higher tornado density.

Central North Dakota

Bismarck. Moderate risk.

Western North Dakota

Williston, Dickinson. Lower tornado density.

Notable North Dakota Cities

• Fargo - largest city, historical Fargo F5
• Bismarck - state capital
• Grand Forks - eastern ND
• Minot - central ND

Living in North Dakota

• NOAA weather radio recommended
• Basement standard tornado shelter
• Family plan advisable
• Understanding of summer tornado peak

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