Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi Strikes Mozambique Following Deadly Impact on Madagascar

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi impacted Mozambique on January 13, 2025, following a deadly path through Madagascar that resulted in three fatalities and extensive damage. Critical infrastructure was affected, prompting emergency responses as the cyclone approached the coast of Mozambique with severe weather conditions expected in Nampula Province.

On January 13, 2025, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi made its presence known by brushing the coast of Mozambique, following a destructive path through Madagascar that resulted in the loss of at least three lives. The cyclone first made landfall in Madagascar’s Antsiranana province on January 11, 2025, with winds reaching 155 km/h (96 mph). The aftermath left 11 homes destroyed, 370 damaged, and affected over 5,210 individuals, with severe damage reported to critical infrastructure.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) conveyed the widespread impacts of the cyclone, which also prompted localized flooding in the provinces of Mahajanga and Toliara. As the cyclone progressed, it continued to affect Mayotte, where approximately 14,500 individuals evacuated to emergency shelters due to intensified storm effects. Flights were suspended at Dzaoudzi–Pamandzi International Airport, with operations planned to resume gradually by January 15, 2025.

After traversing northern Madagascar and moving past Mayotte, Dikeledi approached Mozambique. Near Nacala, in the Nampula Province, the cyclone brushed the coastline with enhanced wind speeds of up to 160 km/h (98 mph). The Mozambique National Institute of Meteorology (INAM) issued Red cyclone warnings for the region, anticipating heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm (8 inches) within a 24-hour period. Districts such as Mussoril and Mogincual were particularly threatened by potential flooding and severe weather conditions.

Tropical cyclones are significant weather systems that can cause widespread devastation, particularly in areas with vulnerable infrastructure. Cyclone Dikeledi is a notably strong system, and its path has raised concerns due to the substantial loss of life and property seen in Madagascar prior to impacting Mozambique. The region’s history with tropical storms necessitates heightened awareness and preparedness to mitigate potential damage and loss of life. The meteorological data indicate the severity of the recent storms, exemplifying the ongoing challenges faced by countries in cyclone-prone areas.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has demonstrated its destructive force, firstly impacting Madagascar with tragic fatalities and significant infrastructure damage, and subsequently affecting Mozambique’s coastal regions. The response from local authorities, including the issuance of cyclone warnings and establishment of evacuation protocols, illustrates the ongoing efforts to safeguard communities during such severe weather events. Continued vigilance and preparedness are essential in mitigating the impacts of future cyclones in this region.

Original Source: watchers.news