Published on July 5, 2025 at 11:58 a.m.
The tornado season is in full swing in Canada, while the United States is already experiencing an exceptionally violent season.
Exceptional season
According to the Storm Prediction Center (SPC), approximately 1,300 preliminary reports of tornadoes were received in the United States until July 3. It is an increase of more than 30% on the average of 958 usual reports on this date. After verification in the field, at least 1,029 tornadoes have been confirmed, which makes 2025 the most active season since the 2011 historical season.
Among them, five were classified EF – 4, which are particularly destructive tornadoes. The record already exceeds the 68 deaths caused by these tornadoes, already more than the 2024 season, while 57 people had died.
A quieter Canada … for now
In comparison, Canada only recorded 25 tornadoes confirmed on July 3. It is the least active season of the last seven years. Note that the first Tornado EF – 2 of the year in Canada hit the floor in Alberta near Drayton Valley on July 2, with winds estimated at 190 km/h on a trajectory of more than 3 km. This tornado represented the fourth event of the year in Alberta.
Why this difference?
In the United States, the tornado season is already strong in the spring, especially in the Midwest states, due to powerful depressions. In Canada, the season culminates in summer, when the jet current migrates north and unstable air masses go back from the south. On average, 35% of tornadoes confirmed in the country are observed in July.
Canada’s place around the world
Canada is far behind the United States, but it still arrives in second world position in the number of annual tornadoes. On average, the country observes between 30 and 80 tornadoes per year. The majority are weak tornadoes (EF – 0 to EF – 1). Less than 5% of the tornadoes observed reach the EF – 3 or more level. The most exposed provinces are those of the meadows (Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba), Ontario and the Montreal – Quebec corridor. The Atlantic provinces and the interior of British Columbia also experience occasional occurrences. Due to a lower population density, a more robust construction (cold climate) and a better alert system via alertready, Canadian tornadoes generally cause much less damage and victims than those in the United States
Although spring has been particularly active in the United States, Canada will enter its most active season for tornadoes. It is therefore crucial to remain vigilant.
With the collaboration of Patrick Duplessis, meteorologist.
