Unprecedented Cyclone Activity in the Southern Hemisphere: February 2025
On February 25, 2025, six tropical storms were present simultaneously in the Southern Hemisphere, marking a rare occurrence not seen since 1989. The storms, influenced by La Niña, included Cyclones Honde and Garance, both expected to cause severe weather and heavy rainfall. Historical context reveals an increase in cyclone activity this season, raising concerns for impacted regions.
On February 25, 2025, an extraordinary atmospheric event occurred in the Southern Hemisphere, with six tropical storms, known as cyclones, manifesting simultaneously in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This rare occurrence marked the first of its kind since 1989. Three of these cyclones were present in the South Pacific while the remaining three lingered in the southern Indian Ocean.
The tropical cyclone season in the Southern Hemisphere extends from November through April. The storms include Tropical Cyclone Honde, located off the coast of Mozambique, Cyclone Garance near Madagascar, Hurricane Bianca west of Australia, Hurricane Alfred to the northeast of Australia, and Tropical Cyclones Seru and Rae situated north of New Zealand.
The prevalence of cyclones in the region can be attributed to factors such as weak wind shear and elevated sea-surface temperatures, conditions linked to the ongoing La Niña phenomenon, as stated by AccuWeather Lead International Expert Jason Nicholls. At 4 p.m. EST on Tuesday, the advisory for Cyclone Rae was issued just as Cyclone Honde formed; Cyclone Rae had previously caused damage in Fiji.
Historical data indicates that the last simultaneous occurrence of three tropical cyclones in the South Pacific happened in January 1999. Although a similar event approached in January 2021, technicalities surrounding storm naming and definitions of the basin resulted in it not qualifying. This season, there have been a total of 22 tropical depressions and cyclones recorded in the Southern Hemisphere, with the Accumulated Cyclone Energy measuring significantly above historical averages, particularly 130 percent of normal for this time of year.
Focusing on Cyclones Honde and Garance, both of them are forecast to bring heavy rainfall and high winds to regions in southern Madagascar and near Reunion Island, respectively. Cyclone Honde’s trajectory is set to impact southern Madagascar, bringing 12 to 24 inches of rain, with local amounts potentially reaching 48 inches. Hurricane Garance’s proximity to Reunion Island will likely result in powerful winds of up to 150 mph and significant rainfall, with local amounts reaching up to 2 feet.
Hurricane Alfred, which developed in the Coral Sea on February 24, continues to intensify while progressing southward. Although it is expected to remain east of Australia, its outer bands may produce rainfall in southeast Queensland and northeast New South Wales in the coming days.
In summary, the Southern Hemisphere recently experienced an unusual meteorological event with six tropical storms occurring concurrently in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The historical significance of this phenomenon highlights the ongoing cyclone season, influenced by La Niña conditions. With the potential for extreme weather effects, including high winds and heavy rainfall, the impacts of these cyclones may have significant consequences on affected regions, particularly Madagascar and Reunion Island.
Original Source: www.accuweather.com
