Réunion Island Sets World Rainfall Records from Major Storms

Réunion Island has set numerous world rainfall records due to its geographical position and topography, particularly during Cyclone Giselle in 1964 and a 2007 storm. Record rainfall includes over 30 inches in just a few hours from individual storms and extraordinary totals over three and four days. This extreme weather results from orographic lifting processes from tropical cyclones affecting the island’s mountainous terrain.

In late February, Réunion Island experienced extraordinary rainfall events, setting multiple world records due to two storms. Category 1 Cyclone Giselle impacted the island from February 28 to 29, 1964, leading to exceptional recorded rainfalls at the Belouve weather station. The records include: 30.16 inches in 6 hours, 42.79 inches in 9 hours, 52.76 inches in 12 hours, and 66.49 inches in 18.5 hours, all exceptional for such short time spans.

Additionally, in late February 2007, Réunion Island faced another deluge, with the Cratère Commerson station reporting 154.72 inches of rain in 72 hours and 194.33 inches in 96 hours. These measurements still hold as world records recognized by the World Meteorological Organization for their respective durations.

Geographically, Réunion Island’s position in the Indian Ocean makes it susceptible to tropical cyclones, aided by its mountainous terrain. The island’s volcanic peaks, particularly one exceeding 10,000 feet, create favorable conditions for lifting moist air. This orographic effect significantly intensifies the rainfall rates during storm events.

Réunion Island has set multiple world rainfall records, stemming from its unique geographical features and exposure to tropical cyclones. Noteworthy storms such as Cyclone Giselle in 1964 and a subsequent event in 2007 have led to record-breaking rainfalls within short durations, illustrating the island’s extreme weather patterns. This extraordinary phenomenon highlights the interaction between the island’s topography and atmospheric conditions, thereby resulting in significant rainfall events.

Original Source: weather.com