Tornado activity up in Arkansas
There's been a significant increase in the number of tornadoes Arkansas has seen in the past 20 years, a new report reveals.
According to data released by the National Weather Service, between 1981 and 2010, the state saw an average of 33 twisters per year, a 26 percent increase when compared to the number the state experienced between 1971 and 2000.
NWS said the increase may not be related to higher twister activity but rather more public awareness of severe weather and greater verification efforts made by the NWS.
Other data released by the NWS detailed what states tend to see the most tornadoes per year for every 10,000 square miles. By this measure, Texas sees the most per year at 14 per 10,000 square miles and Mississippi is second with 12.
This past spring, the peak of tornado season, produced a considerable number of tornadoes, particularly in Missouri. In May 157 people died from an EF-5, making it the deadliest tornado since record keeping began in 1950, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association.
Thousands of properties were damaged, forcing many to file homeowners insurance claims. Wind damage caused by tornadoes is typically covered under a standard policy.
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