Kansas officials say the state saw the lowest number of tornadoes this year in 25 years.
The Wichita Eagle reports only 40 tornadoes were recorded so far in 2014. It’s less than half of the state’s 30-year average of 81.
This year’s figure also is the fourth-lowest total since tornado statistics began being kept in 1950. It’s also the third consecutive year of below-normal tornado totals in Kansas.
But weather officials say the decline is a mixed blessing. While fewer tornadoes means fewer opportunities for deaths, injuries and property damage, they say it also increases the chances of complacency in residents’ preparation for severe weather safety.
