Six Tropical Storms Active Simultaneously in the Southern Hemisphere
Six tropical storms occurred simultaneously in the Southern Hemisphere on February 25, 2025, marking a rare meteorological event not seen since 1989. Key storms include Tropical Cyclones Honde and Garance, affecting Madagascar and Reunion Island, respectively. Factors such as warm sea temperatures and weak wind shear contributed to this unusual event, with significant rainfall and wind forecasted for the impacted areas.
On February 25, 2025, an unusual meteorological event transpired in the Southern Hemisphere, where six tropical storms, referred to as cyclones, were simultaneously active in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This occurrence ties with the record set in 1989. Notably, the current tropical season in this region spans from November to April, and this season has already recorded a total of 22 tropical depressions and cyclones.
Of the six storms, Tropical Cyclone Honde was positioned off the coast of Mozambique, while Cyclone Garance was located near Madagascar. Additionally, Hurricane Bianca was west of Australia, whereas Hurricane Alfred was to the northeast. Tropical Cyclones Seru and Rae were observed north of New Zealand. Meteorological expert Jason Nicholls attributed this phenomenon to weak wind shear and elevated sea surface temperatures, both influenced by La Niña conditions.
The recent activity included the last advisory for Cyclone Rae, issued at 4 p.m. EST on Tuesday, coinciding with the formation of Tropical Cyclone Honde. Cyclone Rae previously caused damage in Fiji, highlighting the severe impact these storms can have. Historically speaking, the last simultaneous presence of three tropical cyclones in the South Pacific occurred in January 1999.
Cyclone Honde is expected to generate heavy rainfall and gusty winds across southwest Madagascar, with accumulations potentially reaching between 12 to 24 inches, and localized amounts up to 48 inches. Wind gusts could peak at 100 mph along the southern coast, although the strongest winds are anticipated to remain offshore.
Cyclone Garance is predicted to near Reunion Island, threatening to deliver significant rainfall and winds. Notably, the last hurricane to approach Reunion was Cyclone Firinga in 1989. Current forecasts suggest that Garance may bring heavy rain of several inches, with localized amounts reaching up to 2 feet, along with wind gusts potentially reaching 150 mph.
Hurricane Alfred, developing in the Coral Sea, continues to intensify while moving southwards. Although it is expected to remain east of Australia, it may bring rain to southeast Queensland and northeast New South Wales due to its outer band effects. This situation demonstrates the complex interactions and potential impacts of tropical systems in the Southern Hemisphere.
In summary, the Southern Hemisphere experienced the concurrent presence of six tropical storms, a phenomenon not seen since 1989. The storms, influenced by favorable meteorological conditions from La Niña, demonstrate significant potential for impact, particularly in Madagascar and Reunion Island. With such severe weather patterns occurring, it remains crucial to monitor these systems and their potential for damage to affected regions.
Original Source: www.accuweather.com
