How Many Tornadoes Hit South Carolina Each Year

The South Carolina State Climatology Office keeps track of tornadoes. Here’s what they’ve found.

“In the period from 1950 through 2015 an average of 14 tornadoes occurred per year in South Carolina. During the more recent period from 1990 to 2015 the annual average was 26 tornadoes per year. This dramatic increase is primarily attributable to the implementation of the National Weather Service’s advanced NEXRAD Doppler radar system which is able to pinpoint tornadic vortex signatures State-wide, unlike previous NWS radar systems.

During spring, tornadoes result from active cold fronts, whereas during summer and early fall many are associated with the passage of tropical cyclones. During November and December, it is not uncommon to have active cold fronts and tornadic activity. Tornado frequency is at a minimum in October and January.”

Here’s the link to their web page http://www.dnr.sc.gov/climate/sco/ClimateData/cli_table_tornado_stats.php

This website shows all known tornadoes to hit South Carolina since 1950 http://www.tornadohistoryproject.com/tornado/South-Carolina/map