Tropical storm Dikeledi is making its way towards Mozambique, having already caused three deaths and significant flooding in Madagascar and Mayotte. The region is recovering from Cyclone Chido, and authorities have issued red alerts in Mayotte as further severe weather is anticipated. The storm is expected to intensify as it approaches Mozambique, with warnings of destructive conditions ahead.
On Monday, the tropical storm Dikeledi headed toward Mozambique after wreaking havoc in Madagascar, where it resulted in three fatalities and significant flooding in Mayotte. Initially classified as a cyclone, Dikeledi brought with it intense winds and torrential rain as it struck Madagascar’s northern region on Saturday. As the storm weakened into a severe tropical system, it remained 150 kilometers from Mozambique’s coast by Monday, expected to gain strength due to the warm waters in the Mozambique Channel.
In Mayotte, authorities continued to issue red alerts, emphasizing the severe vulnerability of the territory. Prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville stated, “We have a territory that is very fragile so I decided to keep this red alert.” The storm’s impacts were compounded by the recent devastation caused by Cyclone Chido, which had already claimed at least 39 lives in Mayotte and caused widespread damage. With Dikeledi likely to bring further torrential rainfall and destructive winds upon approaching Mozambique’s Nampula region, residents were urged to exercise extreme caution.
Tropical cyclones typically form in the Indian Ocean between November and March when conditions are conducive to storm development. In recent years, global warming has intensified cyclone activity, as seen in the unusually high surface temperatures of about 30 degrees Celsius in affected regions. The recent storms, including Cyclone Chido and now Dikeledi, have severely impacted the populations of Mayotte and Mozambique, leading to loss of life and significant humanitarian challenges. Cyclone Chido’s toll was particularly devastating, resulting in 120 fatalities and extensive damage in Mozambique, showcasing the vulnerability of these territories to extreme weather events.
In conclusion, Tropical storm Dikeledi’s approach poses imminent threats to the already affected regions of Madagascar and Mayotte. After causing fatalities and flooding, the storm’s intensification could bring further destruction to Mozambique. As communities continue to recover from previous cyclones, the recurring impacts highlight the urgent need for resilience and disaster preparedness in the face of climate change-induced weather patterns.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
