Record Number of Tropical Cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere on February 25, 2025
On February 25, 2025, six tropical cyclones occurred simultaneously in the Southern Hemisphere, marking a rare event last seen in 1989. Notable storms include Cyclones Honde and Garance, with significant impacts expected on Madagascar and Reunion Island, respectively. The active tropical season has produced 22 storms and experiences heightened energy levels attributed to La Nina conditions.
On February 25, 2025, an unprecedented occurrence took place in the Southern Hemisphere, where six tropical cyclones were reported simultaneously in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This event tied a historical record last seen in 1989. The tropical storm season in this region typically spans from November through April. Notably, three cyclones were active in the South Pacific, while three others were present in the Indian Ocean.
Among these cyclones are Tropical Cyclone Honde, situated off Mozambique, Cyclone Garance near Madagascar, and Hurricane Bianca west of Australia, alongside Hurricane Alfred to the northeast and Tropical Cyclones Sera and Rae north of New Zealand. Conditions favorable for storm formation included weak wind shear and elevated sea-surface temperatures, largely influenced by La Nina, as stated by AccuWeather Lead International Expert Jason Nicholls.
Officials have confirmed the last advisory on Cyclone Rae as of 4 PM EST on Tuesday, coinciding with the formation of Cyclone Honde, which had already inflicted damage in Fiji. The last instance of three tropical cyclones occurring simultaneously in the South Pacific was recorded in January 1999. A subsequent occurrence in January 2021 was complicated by naming conventions and basin definitions.
This season has witnessed a total of 22 tropical depressions and cyclones across the Southern Hemisphere, with the Accumulated Cyclone Energy significantly surpassing historical averages since February 12. As of the latest assessment, the cumulative energy reached 166.3, representing 130 percent of the normal amount for this time of year.
Cyclone Honde is currently moving southeast from Mozambique and is predicted to impact southern Madagascar this week, with potential for heavy rainfall. Nicholls anticipated rainfall accumulation between 12 to 48 inches, alongside wind gusts reaching 100 mph along the southern coastline. Cyclone Garance is also expected to approach Reunion Island, which has not experienced a hurricane since 1989, with forecasts indicating harmful winds and flooding.
Hurricane Alfred originated in the Coral Sea on February 24 and continues to strengthen while moving southward. Although Hurricane Alfred is expected to remain east of Australia, it may bring rainfall to southeast Queensland and northeast New South Wales early next week, according to Nicholls.
In summary, the occurrence of six tropical cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere represents a significant meteorological event, reminiscent of the last such incidence in 1989. The ongoing season has produced an above-average number of storms, impacted by favorable atmospheric conditions associated with La Nina. Cyclones Honde, Garance, and Alfred pose imminent threats to regions like Madagascar and Reunion Island, necessitating close monitoring and preparation for adverse weather conditions.
Original Source: www.accuweather.com
