Réunion Island Achieves Remarkable Rainfall Records in February History

Réunion Island has established world records for rainfall due to its geographic location and storm activity, notably from Cyclone Giselle in 1964 and significant rainfall in 2007. Key records include 66.49 inches within 18.5 hours and 194.33 inches in 96 hours, owing to its mountainous terrain that amplifies rainfall.

In late February, Réunion Island, a French territory situated in the southern Indian Ocean, recorded multiple world rainfall records from two distinct storms. The first storm, Category 1 Cyclone Giselle, impacted the island from February 28 to 29, 1964, generating remarkable rainfall totals that are still recognized today. Meteorological historian Christopher Burt documented the following unprecedented measurements at the Belouve reporting station during this period:

– 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

Remarkably, these amounts are nearly equivalent to the annual rainfall average of Miami, which stands at 67.41 inches, all occurring within a single day.

Moreover, another record-breaking event took place on Réunion Island during the week of February 24-27, 2007. The Cratère Commerson station measured an extraordinary 154.72 inches of rain over 72 hours and 194.33 inches over 96 hours, both of which remain world records for those time periods as recognized by the World Meteorological Organization.

Réunion Island’s immense precipitation is largely attributed to its favorable geographical position within the trajectory of tropical cyclones in the South Indian Ocean, combined with its rugged topography. The island is home to several volcanic peaks, one of which exceeds 10,000 feet in elevation. As moist winds from slow-moving storms are drawn upwards by these steep terrains, the rainfall intensity is significantly heightened.

In summary, Réunion Island has set multiple world rainfall records due to its unique location and orographic effects. Historical events such as Cyclone Giselle in 1964 and additional storms in 2007 demonstrate the island’s capacity for extreme weather phenomena. Continued observation and analysis of these weather patterns will enhance understanding of such extraordinary climatic occurrences.

Original Source: weather.com