Madagascar: Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi – Flash Update No. 2 (January 13, 2025)

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi traversed northern Madagascar on January 11, 2025, affecting over 5,000 people, resulting in three deaths and displacing 352 individuals. The storm caused extensive damage, including the destruction of schools and homes. As of January 13, Dikeledi intensified in Mozambique, leading to further warnings in several provinces, with anticipated heavy rains and wind damage.

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi impacted northern Madagascar on January 11, 2025, leading to significant rainfall and strong winds. This disaster has affected more than 5,000 individuals, resulting in three fatalities and displacing 352 people into six temporary sites. Additionally, approximately 750 children have been rendered out of school due to the destruction of over 60 educational institutions. Humanitarian partners are mobilizing efforts to aid those affected by this catastrophe.

The National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC) indicated that Dikeledi’s passage directly impacted 5,216 individuals, caused three deaths, and displaced 352 people. Infrastructure damage is substantial, with nearly 1,300 homes flooded and 370 damaged, while 11 homes were completely destroyed. Furthermore, 20 classrooms were reported as destroyed and 49 partially damaged, affecting 750 children, with Save the Children estimating that over 22,500 children may be impacted overall. Health facilities and vital road connections have also suffered damage, particularly in Ambilobe District where a national road is currently cut off due to flooding.

As of January 13, Dikeledi intensified in Nampula Province, Mozambique, reaching tropical cyclone strength. Poor weather conditions are affecting Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia Provinces, with reports of heavy to torrential rain. Strong winds, with speeds approaching 150 kilometers per hour and higher gusts, pose risks of marine submersion. Severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall over 200 mm are anticipated, placing adjacent Zambézia Province also on alert for potential effects.

The cyclone is projected to transit over Nampula on January 13, curving southward towards the Mozambique Channel. It may intensify into an intense cyclone as it approaches the western coast of Madagascar’s Toliara province around January 14 or 15. Following this date, the storm is expected to take a south-easterly trajectory, crossing into southern latitudes by January 16 or 17.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has had a devastating effect on northern Madagascar and neighboring Mozambique, with widespread destruction and significant humanitarian challenges. Reports indicate fatalities, displacements, and extensive infrastructure damage, necessitating urgent response efforts from humanitarian partners. As the cyclone continues its path, it is critical to monitor its potential intensification and further impacts on affected regions.

Original Source: www.unocha.org