Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck Mozambique on January 13, 2025, following its devastating impact in Madagascar, where it caused three deaths and extensive property damage. It made landfall in Madagascar with winds up to 155 km/h, affecting over 5,210 individuals. In Mozambique, it caused severe rainfall and flooding, prompting red alerts in multiple provinces.
Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi impacted Mozambique on January 13, 2025, after causing considerable devastation in Madagascar, where it resulted in at least three fatalities and destroyed numerous homes. The cyclone made landfall in Madagascar’s Antsiranana province on January 11, registering winds of up to 155 km/h (96 mph). It left 11 homes completely destroyed and damaged approximately 370, affecting over 5,210 individuals, as per the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA).
Following its passage over northern Madagascar, the cyclone significantly affected Mayotte, which is still recovering from Tropical Cyclone Chido, the most intense in 90 years. Approximately 14,500 residents evacuated to 79 emergency shelters in Mayotte as Dikeledi approached. As the effects intensified, flights at Dzaoudzi–Pamandzi International Airport (DZA) were canceled, with partial operations expected to resume by January 14. Authorities have postponed school reopenings in the hardest-hit regions until at least January 20.
Dikeledi subsequently approached Mozambique, brushing the coast near Nacala, Nampula Province, with winds reaching 160 km/h (98 mph). Heavy rainfall was reported across Nampula and Zambezia, prompting the Mozambique National Institute of Meteorology (INAM) to issue Red cyclone warnings—the highest alert level. Forecasts predict heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm (8 inches) in districts such as Mussoril, Mogincual, Liupo, and Angoche, accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms. The cyclone’s winds and accompanying rainfall have led to significant flooding in these provinces, exacerbating the humanitarian challenges in the region.
Tropical cyclones are severe weather phenomena that can have devastating impacts on coastal regions, resulting in loss of life and widespread destruction. Recent instances, such as Cyclone Dikeledi, illustrate the critical importance of timely evacuations and infrastructure preparedness. The cyclonic activities in Madagascar and Mozambique highlight the vulnerability of these regions to natural disasters, compounded by ongoing recovery efforts from previous storms. The coordination of humanitarian relief by organizations like the UN OCHA is essential in addressing immediate and long-term needs following such disasters.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has demonstrated the destructive power of tropical storms, with significant casualties and damage reported in both Madagascar and Mozambique. The ongoing humanitarian response and the evacuation measures taken highlight the urgency of addressing the impact of these natural disasters. As affected communities begin to recover, coordination between national and international agencies will be crucial in restoring normalcy and ensuring future preparedness against similar events.
Original Source: watchers.news
