Réunion Island’s Record-Breaking Rainfall Events: A Meteorological Examination
Réunion Island set several world records for rainfall during the last week of February, particularly in February 1964 and February 2007. Cyclone Giselle brought extreme rainfalls in 1964, including 66.49 inches in 18.5 hours. In 2007, the island recorded 194.33 inches of rain in 96 hours, both recognized as world records. The island’s geographical features amplify rainfall from tropical cyclones, resulting in these notable weather events.
Réunion Island, situated in the southern Indian Ocean, achieved remarkable world rainfall records during the last week of February, particularly from two significant storms. Notably, between February 28 and 29, 1964, Cyclone Giselle, classified as a Category 1 hurricane, inundated the island with astounding rain totals, as reported by weather historian Christopher Burt. The records included 30.16 inches in 6 hours, 42.79 inches in 9 hours, and 66.49 inches in 18.5 hours, surpassing Miami’s average annual rainfall in less than a day.
On a similar note, Réunion Island recorded extreme rainfall events 18 years ago, from February 24 to 27, 2007. The Cratère Commerson weather station recorded 154.72 inches of rain over 72 hours and 194.33 inches within 96 hours, solidifying these figures as world records for their respective durations, as recognized by the World Meteorological Organization.
The island’s unique geography and location contribute significantly to its extraordinary rainfall levels. Situated in a corridor frequented by tropical cyclones in the South Indian Ocean and characterized by volcanic peaks, including one exceeding 10,000 feet, Réunion experiences intense rainfall. The moist winds from these slow-moving storms are dramatically lifted by the island’s steep terrain, consequently amplifying precipitation rates.
In summary, Réunion Island has established enduring world records for rainfall due to its geographic and climatic conditions. The combination of tropical cyclone activity and the island’s rugged terrain results in exceptional precipitation levels, making it a significant location in meteorological history. These remarkable records, both from 1964 and 2007, highlight the extraordinary weather phenomena that can occur in this region.
Original Source: weather.com
