Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi Threatens Madagascar and Mayotte with Severe Weather
Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi made landfall in Madagascar on January 11, 2024, with winds up to 155 km/h and heavy rains. It is expected to strengthen as it moves toward Mayotte, prompting an Orange Cyclonic Alert due to anticipated gusts and possible flooding. Recent devastating impacts from Cyclone Chido illustrate the urgent need for preparedness in the region.
On January 11, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi made landfall in Madagascar’s Antsiranana province, unleashing destructive winds reaching up to 155 km/h (96 mph). This cyclone is projected to traverse the Mozambique Channel, where it may intensify, ultimately moving past Mayotte as a tropical storm on January 13. As it approaches, Mayotte is likely to experience significant weather impacts, including gusts up to 110 km/h (68 mph), heavy rainfall causing flash floods and landslides, and perilous sea conditions.
Following its landfall, Dikeledi was still causing severe weather in Madagascar, with observed minimum central pressure of 990 hPa and sustained winds around 110 km/h (68 mph). The cyclone is currently heading west-southwest at 17 km/h, situated about 1,085 km (674 miles) from La Reunion and 460 km (286 miles) from Mayotte. As it continues to move to the southwest, Dikeledi is expected to strengthen, particularly as it nears Mayotte, resulting in an Orange Cyclonic Alert being issued for the island, anticipating hazardous conditions.
In Madagascar, the impact of the cyclone is being felt acutely, with destructive winds and heavy rain extending across the region, particularly in the northern provinces. The intense weather is expected to improve gradually by late Saturday night into Sunday morning. Conversely, preparations are underway in Mayotte for severe rainfall and wind, with the southern part of the island likely to experience gusts exceeding 100 km/h (62 mph), increasing the risk of marine submersion in the western lagoon. Additionally, substantial rainfall is anticipated in the Comoros and northern Mozambique, posing further risks of flooding and dangerous sea states.
This situation is compounded by the recent devastation wrought by Cyclone Chido, which struck Mayotte in mid-December, resulting in 39 fatalities and extensive destruction. Dikeledi marks the second cyclone to impact the islands this season, highlighting the increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events in the region.
Cyclone Dikeledi has presented significant challenges to Madagascar and Mayotte, marking a critical phase in the cyclone season for these regions. With the ability to produce winds exceeding 155 km/h and heavy precipitation, Dikeledi threatens infrastructure, public safety, and environmental conditions. The area has been no stranger to severe weather, having recently endured Cyclone Chido, which resulted in considerable loss of life and property. The recurrence of cyclones emphasizes the growing urgency for effective disaster preparedness and response strategies in an era marked by climate change and increasing storm intensity.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi poses a serious threat to Madagascar and Mayotte, with destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and hazardous sea conditions expected to affect the region adversely. The cyclone’s anticipated path and potential intensification raise concerns, particularly in light of recent weather disasters. Authorities are urged to continue vigilant monitoring and provide timely updates to ensure the safety of the residents in the affected areas. Effective preparedness and response mechanisms are crucial to mitigate the adversities presented by such natural phenomena.
Original Source: watchers.news
