Tropical Storm Dikeledi struck northern Mozambique after causing fatalities in Madagascar and flooding in Mayotte. The storm has led to severe weather warnings, including projections of 200 millimeters of rainfall and 180 kilometers per hour wind gusts. President Nyusi has advised residents on safety measures, emphasizing the need for shelters and supplies as the storm progresses.
On Monday, Tropical Storm Dikeledi made landfall in northern Mozambique, having already caused fatalities in Madagascar and flooding in Mayotte. The storm intensified upon reaching the Nampula region, bringing with it destructive winds and heavy rainfall, as reported by Meteo-France. The immediate aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which killed 120 people in December, looms in the precautionary measures taken by authorities and citizens alike. The National Institute of Meteorology in Mozambique has issued warnings anticipating 200 millimeters of rain within 24 hours and wind gusts of 180 kilometers per hour.
In response to the approaching storm, President Filipe Nyusi has urged the public to take safety precautions, advising residents to seek shelter and secure food and water supplies. “Go immediately to a safe shelter and stay there until the authorities give you further instructions,” he emphasized during a parliamentary session in Maputo. As Dikeledi initially struck the northern region of Madagascar, it resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals, reported by the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management. Experts have cautioned that the storm may affect Madagascar’s southwest coast later this week. Moreover, the period of cyclone development in the Indian Ocean typically spans from November to March, and this year, elevated water temperatures contribute to the intensity of the storms.
Cyclones are a recurrent threat in the Indian Ocean region, particularly from November to March. With climate change contributing to elevated sea surface temperatures, such weather systems are anticipated to intensify in their strength and frequency. In prior incidents, severe cyclones have led to significant casualties and infrastructure damage, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of coastal communities in countries like Mozambique and Madagascar. The recent history of cyclones, including Cyclone Chido, underscores the importance of preparedness and timely response measures to safeguard lives and properties in these regions.
In summary, Tropical Storm Dikeledi poses a significant threat as it impacts northern Mozambique following its destructive path through Madagascar. The storm’s capacity to cause severe flooding and strong winds necessitates urgent precautions from local authorities and residents. The rainfall forecasts and wind speeds are alarming, and with the curse of previous cyclones still fresh in memory, the call for safety and preparedness remains paramount. Continuous monitoring and timely responses will be critical as the storm progresses through the region.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
