Tropical storm Dikeledi has caused three deaths and severe flooding in Mayotte and Madagascar. It is now moving towards Mozambique, where it is expected to intensify into an intense cyclone. Mayotte remains under a red alert due to heavy rains and hazardous conditions following the devastating effects of Cyclone Chido.
Tropical storm Dikeledi has begun its trajectory towards Mozambique following its destructive passage through Madagascar and Mayotte, leading to fatalities and flooding. The storm struck Madagascar on Saturday, impacting the northern region with formidable winds and rainfall, resulting in at least three confirmed deaths. As the storm moved away from Mayotte, where it passed relatively closely, a red alert remains active due to ongoing severe weather conditions. Notably, Mayotte continues to grapple with the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which claimed 39 lives and caused significant damage recently. As Dikeledi approaches Mozambique, it is anticipated to gain strength in the warm waters of the Mozambique Channel, potentially escalating to an intense cyclone.
The Indian Ocean region experiences its cyclone season from November to March, characterized by increased storm activity alongside rising sea surface temperatures. Tropical storms and cyclones pose severe threats to coastal communities, as demonstrated by the recent impacts of Cyclone Chido and now Dikeledi. The region is still recovering from the devastation wrought by these storms. The consequences of climate change have resulted in heightened storm intensities, evidenced by the upcoming risks posed by Dikeledi as it approaches Mozambique, particularly in the Nampula region.
In summary, tropical storm Dikeledi has inflicted significant damage while traversing Madagascar and Mayotte, with fatalities confirmed and urgent weather alerts in place. The ongoing fragility of the affected territories, compounded by the recent devastation from Cyclone Chido, underscores the dire need for preparedness as Dikeledi advances towards Mozambique. The region faces further challenges as it enters the cyclone season amid adverse climatic conditions.
Original Source: www.cbs19news.com
