How Often Do Tornadoes Form in Maine?

Maine is not known for tornadoes.

We live in one of the snowiest states in the country, and long, cold winters are what many think of when asked about life in Maine.

But we do see tornadoes in the Pine Street State.

How Often Do Tornadoes Form in Maine?

Here's a quick look at how often they occur.

The Maine Emergency Management Agency says the state averages two tornadoes every year.

According to MEMA, 74 tornadoes occurred in Maine between 1950 and 1990, which is less than 2 per year.

During 2017, seven tornadoes touched down in Maine.

When Do Most Tornadoes in Maine Occur?

In northern New England, peak tornado activity occurs between June and August, but some have formed in May and as late as November.

MEMA says that Maine's more recent tornadoes formed during severe summer storms in the southwestern and central parts of the state.

Emergency officials say that part of the reason why Maine has not seen a significant amount of property damage or injuries due to tornadoes is that the state has a sparse population.

Another factor is that tornadoes in New England are less severe than other parts of the country, and MEMA says tornadoes in Maine generally tend to touch down and then lift off the ground very quickly.

Tornadoes in Maine are less frequent and less severe than they are in other parts of the country, especially Tornado Alley in the central part of the United States.

READ MORE: Earthquake Shakes Livermore but Just How Common Are Quakes in Maine?

So the next time I'm annoyed that I'm stuck indoors without power while another snowstorm is pounding the state, I'll keep tornadoes in mind.

I'd rather sit at home for a week in the wake of an ice storm than spend 5 minutes hunkered down with my fingers crossed, hoping that the EF5 making its way down the street doesn't pulverize my home.