Tropical Storm Dikeledi Approaches Mozambique Amid Recovery from Cyclone Chido
Tropical storm Dikeledi is approaching Mozambique after leaving three dead in Madagascar. The storm has caused significant flooding and prompted a red alert in Mayotte due to potential heavy rains and strong winds. The aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which resulted in multiple fatalities, continues to affect the region, leading to mobilization for disaster response and shelter accommodations.
On Monday, tropical storm Dikeledi approached Mozambique after causing significant devastation in Madagascar, where it claimed three lives and caused substantial flooding. Having previously struck Madagascar’s northern region as a cyclone, Dikeledi has since weakened into a severe tropical storm, passing approximately 100 kilometers from Mayotte. Authorities in Mayotte have maintained a red alert due to the young storm’s threats of continued heavy rainfall and strong winds, particularly affecting their fragile infrastructure.
The aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which caused the death of at least 39 individuals in Mayotte and over 120 in Mozambique, continues to linger. Residents are still reeling from Chido’s destruction, and the region faces a severe risk of further disasters as wet weather persists. Local officials state that travel is restricted, with rescue operations being the only exception.
While the cyclone conditions are a primary concern, reports indicate that severe weather shall impact the Nampula region in Mozambique, resulting in torrential rains and potentially hazardous winds. Preparations have been initiated, with over 4,000 personnel, including police and military members, mobilized in Mayotte. Shelter accommodations for approximately 14,500 individuals have also been established in response to the red alert.
In light of the recent weather events, ongoing vigilance is critical. As Dikeledi marches toward Mozambique, meteorological experts anticipate an intensification of the storm. With the rainy season still ongoing, concerns about the trajectory of future cyclones remain paramount. The incidence of cyclones usually peaks during the Indian Ocean seasonal window from November to March, a pattern that could see escalated disruptions this year.
The region of Madagascar and its surrounding territories, including Mayotte and Mozambique, are susceptible to tropical cyclones during the November to March period each year. Climate phenomena, including the rise in ocean temperatures, have been linked to increasing storm intensity, raising alarm among meteorologists. Recent cyclones, particularly Chido and now Dikeledi, have illustrated the vulnerability of local populations to severe weather conditions and the resulting humanitarian crises.
In conclusion, the tropical storm Dikeledi poses an imminent threat to Mozambique after causing fatalities and destruction in Madagascar and Mayotte. With ongoing severe weather and potential for increased cyclone activity, local authorities have enacted safety measures to protect residents and provide necessary support. They face the dual challenges of recovering from Cyclone Chido while bracing for further impacts from Dikeledi, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and response in the face of climate-related disasters.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
