Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi Strikes Mozambique After Deadly Path Through Madagascar

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi impacted Mozambique after causing fatalities in Madagascar. Landfall occurred on January 11, 2025, affecting thousands with severe winds and damage. Emergency evacuations were implemented in Mayotte. Mozambique received cyclone warnings of heavy rainfall and potential flooding, urging preparedness in affected provinces.

On January 13, 2025, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi impacted Mozambique after causing devastation in Madagascar, leaving at least three individuals dead and significant infrastructure damage in its wake. The cyclone made landfall in Madagascar’s Antsiranana province on January 11, exhibiting winds reaching 155 km/h (96 mph), leading to the destruction of 11 homes and damage to 370 others, severely affecting over 5,210 people. The region experienced localized flooding due to continued rainfall bands.

Following its passage over Madagascar, in the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, approximately 14,500 residents of Mayotte were evacuated to emergency shelters as Dikeledi’s effects intensified. Flights at Dzaoudzi–Pamandzi International Airport were canceled, with plans for gradual resumption shortly afterward, while authorities postponed school reopenings until at least January 20 due to ongoing threats.

Dikeledi subsequently brushed the coast of Mozambique near Nacala in Nampula Province, with winds escalating to 160 km/h (98 mph), resulting in severe disruptions across the region. The Mozambique National Institute of Meteorology issued Red cyclone warnings for vulnerable provinces, predicting heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm (8 inches) and thunderstorms in several districts. These conditions could further exacerbate the risks of flooding in Nampula and Zambezia provinces.

Tropical cyclones are intense circular storms originating over warm tropical oceans and are characterized by low atmospheric pressure, high winds, and heavy rain. They pose significant threats to coastal regions, often causing loss of life and extensive property damage. The recent Cyclone Dikeledi highlights the vulnerability of Madagascar and Mozambique to such natural disasters, especially given their geographical locations. Understanding the patterns of these cyclones assists in better preparedness and response strategies for populations in affected areas.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has posed a serious threat to Madagascar and Mozambique, leading to tragic fatalities and extensive infrastructure damage. The aftermath has highlighted challenges for emergency responses and regional preparedness, particularly in light of past similar events. Continuous monitoring and improved emergency response will be vital in mitigating losses from such storms in the future.

Original Source: watchers.news