Réunion Island recently set world rainfall records due to two storms. In February 1964, Cyclone Giselle yielded astonishing rainfall, with totals reaching 66.49 inches in 18.5 hours. Additionally, in February 2007, Réunion recorded 154.72 inches in 72 hours from the Cratère Commerson station. Excessive rainfall results from the island’s unique geography and proximity to tropical cyclones in the Indian Ocean.
Réunion Island, located in the southern Indian Ocean, recently gained attention for setting multiple world rainfall records during two significant storms in late February. The most notable of these events occurred from February 28 to 29, 1964, when Category 1 Cyclone Giselle struck the island, resulting in extraordinary rainfall totals. The weather station at Belouve recorded the following remarkable figures:
– 30.16 inches of rain in 6 hours
– 42.79 inches in 9 hours
– 52.76 inches in 12 hours
– 66.49 inches in 18.5 hours
These amounts are nearly equivalent to the average annual rainfall of Miami, which is 67.41 inches, but were recorded in less than a day.
In addition to the 1964 event, Réunion Island experienced another record rainfall from February 24 to 27, 2007, which added to its renown. At the Cratère Commerson weather station, rainfall totals reached 154.72 inches over 72 hours and 194.33 inches over 96 hours, both of which remain recognized as world records by the World Meteorological Organization.
Réunion’s significant rainfall can be attributed to its geographic position within the belt of tropical cyclones in the South Indian Ocean, enhanced by its topography. The island features several volcanic peaks, with one towering just above 10,000 feet. Moisture-laden winds from slow-moving storms are forced upwards by the steep terrain of Réunion, leading to increased precipitation.
This analysis originally appeared in today’s edition of the Morning Brief newsletter, which provides weekday updates related to meteorological events and analyses. Readers are encouraged to subscribe to receive insights directly from The Weather Channel’s experts.
In summary, Réunion Island has established itself as a record-holder for extreme rainfall, with historical events dating back to 1964 and 2007. The combination of its geographical location and volcanic terrain significantly influences the rainfall patterns on the island. These ongoing records underscore the unique climatic nature of Réunion Island, making it a focal point for weather phenomena in the region.
Original Source: weather.com
