North Dakota Tornadoes
North Dakota averages 20 tornadoes per year. History includes 1957 Fargo F5 - the state's deadliest tornado.
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
Try the interactive simulator
Place an EF0–EF5 tornado anywhere in the world and see modeled fatalities, structural damage, and economic loss based on real census data.
Launch simulator →Try the interactive simulator
Place an EF0–EF5 tornado anywhere in the world and see modeled fatalities, structural damage, and economic loss based on real census data.
Launch simulator →