Tropical Cyclone Horacio has rapidly strengthened into a Category 5 hurricane, marking the strongest tropical cyclone recorded worldwide so far in 2026. The powerful storm developed over the South Indian Ocean and has reached maximum sustained winds of 161 mph (259 km/h).
According to the latest forecast from the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) on Tuesday, Horacio is tracking south‑southwestward over open ocean waters east of Madagascar, maintaining its fierce intensity.
Satellite imagery reveals a compact, well‑organized system with a sharply defined eye — a hallmark of a mature and powerful cyclone.
Meteorologists say several favorable conditions have driven the storm’s rapid intensification:
Warm ocean temperatures: Sea surface temperatures around 27–28 °C are fueling the cyclone’s development.
Moderate wind shear: Low disruptive winds aloft are helping Horacio retain its structure.
Strong upper‑level outflow: Efficient ventilation in the upper atmosphere is aiding the storm’s maintenance and strength.
While Horacio remains far from major landmasses, it still presents hazards to marine environments and smaller islands in the region.
The Mauritius Meteorological Service has issued a heavy swell warning for Rodrigues Island, situated roughly 350 miles east of Mauritius’s main island. The warning, released at 4:30 a.m. Tuesday, is in effect until early Wednesday. Forecasters caution that swells from the cyclone could generate waves up to seven metres beyond surrounding reefs, potentially impacting low‑lying coastal zones and shallow lagoons.
At this stage, Horacio is not expected to threaten India or other nearby continental nations. Nonetheless, authorities in Mauritius have urged maritime vessels to steer clear of the affected sea areas.
Climate scientists note that increasing ocean temperatures linked to climate change can enhance the potential for stronger tropical cyclones. Warmer seas provide additional energy that can help storms intensify more rapidly. However, experts emphasize that not all individual cyclones can be solely attributed to climate change, as a range of atmospheric and oceanic conditions influences their formation and development. https://dmtn1.com/tropical-cyclone-horacio-intensifies-into-first-category-5-storm-of-2026-in-the-south-indian-ocean/
