Unprecedented Tropical Storm Activity in the Southern Hemisphere

A total of six tropical storms are currently active in the Southern Hemisphere, including three in the South Pacific and two in the Indian Ocean. Significant storm activity is attributed to warm sea-surface temperatures and weak wind shear due to La Nina. Notable storms include Tropical Cyclone Honde, Garance, and Hurricanes Alfred and Bianca, with varying expected impacts on surrounding regions.

There are six tropical storms currently active in the Southern Hemisphere. On Tuesday, three tropical cyclones were recorded simultaneously in the South Pacific, matching the historical record, while two additional cyclones were identified in the Southern Indian Ocean. This rare phenomenon was noted as five tropical storms were spinning in the southern oceans at once, prompting significant interest from meteorologists.

The last occurrence of three simultaneous tropical cyclones in the South Pacific happened in January 1999. At that time, the storms were named Dani, Olinda, and Pete. The tropical storm season in this region typically runs from November through April, showing a peak of activity during these months.

As of February 25, 2025, the active storms include Tropical Cyclone Honde, located off the coast of Mozambique, Cyclone Garance near Madagascar, Hurricane Bianca to the west of Australia, Hurricane Alfred northeast of Australia, and Tropical Cyclones Seru and Rae situated north of New Zealand. The surge of cyclone activity can be attributed to warm sea-surface temperatures and weak wind shear, phenomena linked to La Nina, reported AccuWeather’s Lead International Expert, Jason Nicholls.

On Tuesday afternoon, officials issued the last advisory for Cyclone Rae as it dissipated, coinciding with the formation of Tropical Cyclone Honde. Cyclone Rae had previously caused damage in Fiji. Cyclone Garance is expected to proceed southward off Madagascar, affecting Reunion Island in the coming days, which has not directly experienced a hurricane since Cyclone Firinga in 1989.

Hurricane Alfred was reported to be intensifying off Australia’s northeast coast, having formed in the Coral Sea on February 24. Forecasters predict that this storm will affect northeast Queensland by the weekend with significant rainfall and strong winds, as stated by AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Expert, Paul Pastelok.

In summary, the Southern Hemisphere is currently experiencing an unusual concentration of tropical storms, with significant activity noted in both the South Pacific and Indian Oceans. This notable weather pattern highlights the potential impacts of La Nina, resulting in warmer temperatures and conducive conditions for storm formation. The upcoming days are critical as these storms progress, particularly concerning their impact on regions like Madagascar and Australia.

Original Source: www.accuweather.com