Réunion Island Achieves Historic Rainfall Records in February

Réunion Island set several world records for rainfall in February, particularly during Cyclone Giselle in 1964 and another significant rainfall event in 2007. The island’s geological features amplify rainfall due to moist winds from tropical storms. Its historical weather data showcases remarkable records that continue to stand today.

Réunion Island, located in the southern Indian Ocean, broke multiple world rainfall records during the last week of February from two distinct storms. Notably, Cyclone Giselle, a Category 1 cyclone, struck the island between February 28 and 29, 1964, leading to extraordinary precipitation measurements at the Belouve reporting station, which are recognized as world records by weather historian Christopher Burt. The recorded amounts were as follows:

– 30.16 inches in 6 hours
– 42.79 inches in 9 hours
– 52.76 inches in 12 hours
– 66.49 inches in 18.5 hours

To put these figures into perspective, the island received nearly an entire year’s worth of rain in less than 24 hours, with Miami’s annual average being 67.41 inches, demonstrating the intensity of the storm’s impact.

Additionally, Réunion Island experienced another significant rainfall event 18 years ago, between February 24 and 27, 2007, when the Cratère Commerson station reported extraordinary rainfall totals. The observed measurements included:

– 154.72 inches of rain within 72 hours
– 194.33 inches over 96 hours

Both of these totals are officially recognized as world records for their respective durations by the World Meteorological Organization.

The island’s impressive precipitation can be attributed to its unique geographic position within a pathway of tropical cyclones in the South Indian Ocean, alongside its mountainous terrain. Réunion boasts several volcanic peaks, one of which exceeds 10,000 feet in elevation. Moisture-laden winds from slow-moving storm systems, including tropical cyclones, are effectively lifted by the island’s rugged topography, resulting in significantly enhanced rainfall rates.

In conclusion, Réunion Island has established itself as a location of extreme rainfall, achieving several world records due to its volcanic structure and position within the cyclone alley of the South Indian Ocean. The events from 1964 and 2007 serve as a testament to the island’s unique meteorological conditions, demonstrating the remarkable impact of geography on weather phenomena. These records highlight the importance of ongoing weather observation and the need for continued research in understanding extreme weather patterns.

Original Source: weather.com