Peoria Standard

Weather experts have been actively issuing watches and warnings to ensure safety during Illinois' active tornado season. The state has already exceeded its annual tornado average for 2025, following two historically active seasons in 2023 and 2024.

Meteorologists attribute the rise in tornado counts to better technology, including expansive radar networks and a growing storm-chasing community. This improved technology allows for the detection of smaller tornadoes that might have otherwise gone unnoticed in the past. Public awareness is also credited with aiding in safety measures.

The public can receive severe weather notifications through various means, such as outdoor sirens, media coverage, and weather radios. With modern technology, people can also access this information on mobile apps and social media platforms.

Despite advances in warning systems, tornadoes remain dangerous, causing injuries and fatalities. In contrast to the past, when these storms struck with little warning, today there are numerous methods to alert affected populations.

Historically, Illinois experienced one of the deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history on March 18, 1925. Known as the "Tri-State Tornado," it resulted in 695 deaths across three states, with Illinois suffering the most. The tornado started near Ellington, Missouri, and moved northeast, crossing into Illinois and causing substantial damage.

Murphysboro was the most affected city, with 234 deaths and over 600 injuries. In West Frankfort, 148 people were killed. The tornado also devastated towns like Gorham and Parrish, with schools in Murphysboro and DeSoto heavily damaged. Combined, 33 children died at DeSoto's school, and 25 were killed in Murphysboro schools. The tornado traveled over 200 miles at speeds exceeding 200 mph.

The devastating tornado originated from a low-pressure system near the Arkansas-Missouri border that merged with a warm front, producing a violent and long-lived tornado.

Angela Mason, the author of "Death Rides the Sky: The Story of the 1925 Tri-State Tornado," documents the storm with survivor interviews and accounts of resilience. Her book reflects on the lasting impact of the Tri-State Tornado with firsthand stories from nearly 50 witnesses.