Tropical storm Dikeledi is approaching Mozambique after causing fatalities in Madagascar and triggering flooding in Mayotte. The storm has initially weakened but is expected to regain strength. The region is on high alert due to previous damage from Cyclone Chido and ongoing heavy rainfall is anticipated, prompting precautionary measures and travel restrictions in affected areas.
Tropical storm Dikeledi is currently approaching Mozambique after bringing significant devastation to Madagascar and Mayotte. The storm initially struck Madagascar on Saturday, resulting in at least three fatalities and triggering floods in the region. As of Sunday, Dikeledi had weakened to a severe tropical storm while passing approximately 100 kilometers from Mayotte, which remains under a red alert due to concerns over its fragile infrastructure. Mayotte’s Prefect, Francois-Xavier Bieuville, stated that the red alert will persist until nighttime due to ongoing severe weather conditions.
Despite no new casualties reported from Dikeledi, the region is still grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which left at least 39 people dead and injured over 5,600 in Mayotte. Cyclone Chido previously caused considerable destruction in Mozambique, claiming at least 120 lives and resulting in hundreds of injuries. Dikeledi is presently located 150 kilometers off Mozambique’s coast and is expected to regain strength as it travels over the warm waters of the Mozambique Channel. Meteorological authorities forecast that it could become an intense tropical cyclone.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated in Mayotte, with ongoing recommendations for residents to exercise caution, especially in coastal areas susceptible to high tides. Local emergency services reported damage, including the destruction of homes and inundated villages, as residents expressed their anxieties regarding the ongoing rainy season. The red alert status has restricted non-essential movements, confining residents to their homes, except for emergency services. As Dikeledi approaches Mozambique, its potential impacts include torrential rains and severe winds, raising significant concerns among the population.
The Indian Ocean region is often affected by cyclones, particularly during the period from November to March. With rising sea temperatures, measured close to 30 degrees Celsius this year, cyclones in this region are anticipated to be more intense than in previous years, an effect attributed to global warming trends. Such climatic changes contribute to the extreme weather patterns observed, emphasizing the need for enhanced disaster preparedness and response strategies within vulnerable communities.
In summary, tropical storm Dikeledi poses a significant threat to areas previously devastated by Cyclone Chido, especially in Madagascar and Mayotte. The ongoing response measures highlight the challenges faced by these communities, which are still recovering from prior disasters. Increased storm intensity due to climate change raises concerns for future preparedness against similar events. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as Dikeledi approaches Mozambique with threatening forecasts of severe weather conditions.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
