HOUSTON, Texas  (KIAH) -- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has revealed that 2024 was a historic year for tornado activity and costly weather disasters. From January to November, the U.S. recorded 1,762 tornadoes, marking the highest number in a decade. These storms contributed to a staggering 24 weather events that each caused at least $1 billion in damages, underscoring the increasing severity of natural disasters nationwide. Among the year's six significant tornado outbreaks was a particularly destructive event that spawned over 79 tornadoes across Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and New York. These tornadoes left a trail of devastation, destroying homes, businesses, and infrastructure while causing widespread power outages. Experts believe these disasters are part of a broader trend driven by climate variability, urging communities to adopt stronger mitigation and preparedness strategies.