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Three Tropical Cyclones Simultaneously Spin in the South Pacific

Cyclones Rae, Seru, and Alfred mark a rare occurrence during the region's peak storm season, with impacts expected in Fiji, Vanuatu, and Queensland, Australia.

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Satellite captures three named tropical cyclones churning simultaneously east of Australia in the South Pacific Ocean basin on Tuesday.

Overview

  • The South Pacific is experiencing three active tropical cyclones—Rae, Seru, and Alfred—an occurrence last observed in January 2021.
  • Cyclone Rae formed north of Fiji, bringing heavy rain and strong winds that caused localized damage, including to fruit trees.
  • Cyclone Alfred, developing in the Coral Sea, is forecasted to bring flooding rains to Queensland, Australia, over the coming weekend.
  • Cyclone Seru is tracking near Vanuatu but is expected to remain offshore, minimizing direct land impacts.
  • Scientists point to natural atmospheric fluctuations, such as the Madden–Julian Oscillation, as potential contributors to the heightened cyclone activity.