Unprecedented Cyclonic Activity in the Southern Hemisphere, February 2025
On February 25, 2025, six tropical cyclones were simultaneously active in the Southern Hemisphere. Cyclone Honde and Garance are notably affecting Madagascar and Reunion Island, respectively, with dangerous weather conditions anticipated. The surge in cyclonic activity is due to La Niña, and Hurricane Alfred may impact Australia soon.
On February 25, 2025, an extraordinary meteorological event unfolded in the Southern Hemisphere, with six tropical cyclones active simultaneously across the Indian and Pacific Oceans, a phenomenon not observed since 1989. The cyclones included Tropical Cyclone Honde off Mozambique, Garance near Madagascar, Hurricane Bianca and Hurricane Alfred near Australia, and Cyclones Seru and Rae north of New Zealand.
The current tropical season spans from November to April, and the season to date has recorded a total of 22 tropical depressions and cyclones. Jason Nicholls, Lead International Expert at AccuWeather, attributed the increase in storm activities primarily to weak wind shear and elevated sea-surface temperatures, conditions influenced by La Niña.
Cyclone Honde is expected to impact southern Madagascar, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding later this week. Forecasts predict rainfall amounts between 12 and 48 inches, with wind gusts potentially reaching up to 100 mph along the coastline.
Tropical Cyclone Garance is projected to approach Reunion Island as a hurricane, which has not occurred since 1989. The island should prepare for significant rainfall and wind gusts of up to 150 mph, leading to substantial coastal flooding and damage.
Hurricane Alfred, which formed on February 24 in the Coral Sea, is intensifying while moving south. Although it is expected to remain off the mainland, its outer bands may still affect the weather in southeast Queensland and northeast New South Wales by early next week.
In summary, the Southern Hemisphere is currently experiencing an unprecedented number of cyclones simultaneously, which can be attributed to specific climatic conditions. The impact on coastal regions is expected to be significant, particularly in Madagascar and Reunion Island, with substantial preparations required to mitigate potential damages.
Original Source: www.accuweather.com
