WEST VIRGINIA (LOOTPRESS) – In 2024, West Virginia has already experienced 15 tornadoes, marking a new record for the state in a single calendar year.
The first documented tornado in West Virginia dates back to 1875 in Ritchie County, and since then, 189 tornadoes have been recorded across the state.
The previous record for the most active year was in 1998, with 14 tornadoes. Subsequent years saw nine tornadoes in 2014 and eight in 2016.
The increase in tornado documentation is likely due to improved technology, such as security cameras, cell phones, and social media, making it easier to record weaker EF0 and EF1 tornadoes.
Additionally, drones have enhanced our ability to distinguish tornado damage from straight-line wind damage, especially in remote or poorly accessible areas, resulting in more accurate assessments.
