Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi Strikes Mozambique Following Fatal Impact in Madagascar

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi brushed the Mozambique coast on January 13, 2025, after causing at least three deaths and extensive damage in Madagascar. The storm made landfall in Madagascar on January 11, impacting thousands, with subsequent warnings issued in Mozambique due to expected heavy rainfall and flooding. Authorities reported severe disruptions, particularly in Nampula and Zambezia provinces.

On January 13, 2025, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi made landfall along the coast of Mozambique after causing significant devastation in Madagascar. Initially striking Madagascar’s Antsiranana province on January 11 with sustained winds reaching 155 km/h (96 mph), the cyclone resulted in at least three fatalities, over 370 damaged homes, and extensive harm to infrastructure. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported more than 5,200 people were affected by the cyclone’s wrath, with floods impacting regions such as Mahajanga and Toliara.

After traversing Madagascar, Dikeledi affected Mayotte, where approximately 14,500 residents were evacuated to emergency shelters as they prepared for the storm’s impacts. By January 13, the cyclone approached Mozambique, where it brushed past Nacala in Nampula Province with winds increasing to 160 km/h (98 mph). Authorities in Mozambique issued Red cyclone warnings as heavy rainfall was forecasted for several districts in Nampula and Zambezia provinces. The National Institute of Meteorology of Mozambique warned of rainfall exceeding 200 mm (8 inches) within a 24-hour period, exacerbating existing flood conditions in several areas.

Tropical cyclones, such as Dikeledi, frequently pose a threat to regions along the Indian Ocean, particularly in Madagascar and Mozambique. These storms develop over warm ocean waters and can lead to severe weather conditions including damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and floods. This cyclone formed as Madagascar was recovering from another storm, illustrating the heightened vulnerability of this region to successive cyclonic events. The impacts of Dikeledi underscore the significance of preparedness and timely evacuations to mitigate loss of life and property during such natural disasters.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has wrought significant destruction in Madagascar and threatened Mozambique with severe weather conditions. The aftermath of this cyclone highlights the critical need for effective disaster response and preparedness strategies in areas frequently impacted by cyclonic activity. As communities recover, ongoing support from humanitarian organizations will be essential to restore normalcy in the affected regions.

Original Source: watchers.news