Réunion Island Breaks World Records with Extraordinary Rainfall

Réunion Island set multiple world rainfall records from storms in 1964 and 2007. Notably, Cyclone Giselle produced staggering amounts of rain, including 66.49 inches in just 18.5 hours. The terrain and tropical cyclone activity contribute to the island’s heavy rainfall, impacting its weather patterns significantly.

Recently, Réunion Island, located in the southern Indian Ocean, experienced significant rainfall events that resulted in multiple world records. From February 28 to 29 in 1964, Category 1 Cyclone Giselle unleashed remarkable rainfalls, with the Belouve reporting station recording astounding rates: 30.16 inches in 6 hours, 42.79 inches in 9 hours, 52.76 inches in 12 hours, and 66.49 inches in 18.5 hours. Such amounts nearly equal the entire annual average rainfall of Miami, which stands at 67.41 inches, all within a single day.

Furthermore, this week marks the 18th anniversary of another record rainfall on Réunion Island, which occurred from February 24 to 27, 2007. The Cratère Commerson station documented 154.72 inches of rainfall in 72 hours and an extraordinary 194.33 inches over 96 hours. Both figures remain official world records as acknowledged by the World Meteorological Organization.

The island’s unique geography significantly contributes to its heavy rainfall. Situated in a region frequented by tropical cyclones, Réunion boasts a rugged landscape with towering volcanic peaks that reach over 10,000 feet. The combination of moist winds from slow-moving storms and the island’s steep terrain results in enhanced precipitation rates, leading to these remarkable weather phenomena.

In summary, Réunion Island has established itself as a record-holder for exceptional rainfall thanks to its climatic conditions and geological features. The severe rainfall events from Cyclone Giselle in 1964 and the 2007 storms are testaments to the island’s ability to attract and concentrate moisture, driving impressive weather records that remain unchallenged to this day.

Original Source: weather.com