Impact and Progress of Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi in Madagascar

On 11 January, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck northern Madagascar, affecting over 5,000 people and causing three deaths and displacement of 352 individuals. More than 60 schools were damaged, leaving 750 children without education. Following its initial impact, the cyclone reached Nampula Province on 13 January, escalating weather conditions across several nearby provinces, with additional adverse weather projected.

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi impacted northern Madagascar on 11 January, resulting in significant rainfall and high winds. The cyclone affected over 5,000 individuals, leading to three fatalities and displacing 352 people while also leaving 750 children without schooling due to extensive damage to more than 60 schools. Humanitarian organizations are mobilizing to assist those impacted by the disaster.

In terms of the overall situation, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi directly affected 5,216 individuals in Madagascar, according to the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC). The cyclone caused three fatalities, displaced 352 individuals, and resulted in the flooding of approximately 1,300 houses, damaging 370 and completely destroying 11. Additionally, 20 classrooms were annihilated, and 49 others sustained partial damage.

As the cyclone moved towards Mozambique, it made landfall as a tropical cyclone in Nampula Province on 13 January. The provinces of Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia are experiencing severely adverse weather conditions, including torrential rains and destructive winds, which pose dangers of marine submersion along the coastline. Winds are expected to reach 150 kilometers per hour, with gusts up to 180 kilometers per hour.

The cyclone was projected to gradually shift its trajectory southward while passing over Nampula Province. It is anticipated that Dikeledi could regain strength and potentially transform into a more intense cyclone by 14 or 15 January, as it continues moving toward the south-southeast, nearing the Malagasy province of Toliara, with expected landfall around the 16 or 17 January.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has significantly impacted northern Madagascar, displacing individuals and damaging infrastructure, including schools and residential buildings. As it approaches Mozambique, it continues to pose a threat with heavy rains and destructive winds. Humanitarian efforts are ongoing to assist those affected as the situation evolves.

Original Source: www.unocha.org