Longest Tropical Cyclone in History Named by WMO

In a historic announcement, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has declared Cyclone Freddy the longest-lasting tropical cyclone ever recorded. Forming northwest of West Australia in February 2023, Cyclone Freddy traversed the Indian Ocean before striking southeast Africa in March. The cyclone maintained its tropical storm status for an unprecedented 36 days, surpassing the previous duration record held by Cyclone John in 1994. However, Cyclone John still holds the record for the longest distance traveled at approximately 12,785 kilometers, with Freddy coming in second.