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Today in History: Tinker Air Force Base issues world's first tornado forecast

3/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 25, 1948, meteorologists at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City issued the world's first official tornado forecast. They recognized weather conditions mirroring those of a tornado that had struck five days prior. This forecast was verified when a tornado hit the base that evening, marking a significant milestone in meteorological history.

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Story summary

On March 25, 1948, meteorologists at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City issued the world's first official tornado forecast. They recognized weather conditions mirroring those of a tornado that had struck five days prior. This forecast was verified when a tornado hit the base that evening, marking a significant milestone in meteorological history.