Réunion Island’s Exceptional Rainfall Records: A Historical Overview

Réunion Island set several world rainfall records in late February from Cyclone Giselle in 1964 and another storm in 2007. Significant measurements include 66.49 inches in 18.5 hours from Giselle and 194.33 inches in 96 hours in 2007. The island’s terrain and location in a cyclone belt contribute to its high rainfall rates, leading to these exemplary records.

Réunion Island, situated in the southern Indian Ocean, experienced extraordinary rainfall due to two separate storms, establishing several world records during the last week of February. Notably, from February 28-29, 1964, Cyclone Giselle, categorized as a Category 1 storm, caused remarkable rainfall, with the Belouve station recording phenomenal figures that still stand today.

The reported rainfalls include:
– 30.16 inches within 6 hours
– 42.79 inches within 9 hours
– 52.76 inches within 12 hours
– 66.49 inches within 18.5 hours
These amounts approach Miami’s annual rainfall average of 67.41 inches, achieved in less than a single day.

Additionally, 18 years prior to Giselle’s record in late February, Réunion Island faced another significant deluge from February 24-27, 2007. The Cratère Commerson measurement station documented unprecedented rainfalls of 154.72 inches over 72 hours and 194.33 inches over 96 hours, both of which remain official world records, as recognized by the World Meteorological Organization.

The island’s impressive rainfall totals are attributed to its geographical location within a corridor frequented by tropical cyclones in the South Indian Ocean. The island’s mountainous landscape, featuring volcanic peaks—even a notable ascent of over 10,000 feet—plays a crucial role in enhancing rainfall as moist winds from tropical storms encounter the steep terrain.

In summary, the convergence of Réunion Island’s unique position and topography contributes significantly to its prolific rainfall, resulting in the establishment of remarkable world records. Readers are encouraged to subscribe to the Morning Brief newsletter for continued updates from the Weather Channel.

In conclusion, Réunion Island’s extraordinary weather events highlight the remarkable rainfall records established due to its geographic factors and cyclone activity. With significant rainfall totals recorded during two distinct periods, the island’s unique topography intensifies the precipitation resulting from tropical storms. Acknowledging these historical events embraces the island’s reputation for extreme weather phenomena.

Original Source: weather.com