Tropical Storm Dikeledi hit northern Mozambique, leading to severe weather conditions after causing fatalities in Madagascar. Authorities issued flood warnings with predictions of heavy rainfall and strong winds. President Filipe Nyusi urged citizens to prepare for the storm. This storm follows a pattern of increased cyclone intensity in the Indian Ocean, likely linked to climate change.
Tropical Storm Dikeledi struck northern Mozambique on Monday, following its devastating impact in Madagascar, which resulted in at least three fatalities and significant flooding in Mayotte. The storm, as reported by the French meteorological organization Meteo-France, intensified while affecting Mozambique’s Nampula region with severe winds and heavy rain. Historically, Mozambique has been vulnerable to such weather phenomena, highlighted by the recent tragedy of Cyclone Chido, which claimed 120 lives in December 2022.
The National Institute of Meteorology (INAM) of Mozambique has issued flood alerts due to forecasts predicting rainfall accumulation of up to 200 millimeters (approximately eight inches) within a 24-hour period and potential wind gusts reaching 180 kilometers per hour (110 miles per hour). In light of this impending calamity, President Filipe Nyusi has advised citizens in the storm’s path to take immediate safety measures, including seeking shelter and securing essential supplies such as food and water. During the parliamentary session in the capital, Maputo, he stated, “Go immediately to a safe shelter and stay there until the authorities give you further instructions.”
The National Office for Risk and Disaster Management in Madagascar reported that Dikeledi had initially ravaged the northern tip of Madagascar, causing fatalities and comprehensive damage. As the storm progresses southward, further warnings have been issued regarding potential impacts on Madagascar’s southwestern coastline. Generally, cyclones are prevalent in the Indian Ocean from November to March, and this year, unusually warm surface water temperatures near 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) have been noted, which contributes to the storm’s intensified effects, a phenomenon indicative of the broader consequences of climate change.
The Indian Ocean experiences its cyclone season from November to March, coinciding with warmer water temperatures that significantly impact storm severity. Tropical Storm Dikeledi’s formation and subsequent path exemplify the increasing intensity of such weather events, often compounded by the ongoing effects of climate change. Previous storms, such as Cyclone Chido in December 2022, have demonstrated the catastrophic consequences that cyclones can impose on vulnerable populations in regions like Mozambique and Madagascar. The response and preparedness of local authorities, such as the issuing of flood warnings by the National Institute of Meteorology, highlight the critical need for effective disaster management protocols in the face of climate-induced natural disasters.
In conclusion, Tropical Storm Dikeledi poses significant threats to northern Mozambique following its initial impact in Madagascar, resulting in lives lost and widespread flooding. The government’s proactive response, including public safety advisories from President Filipe Nyusi, emphasizes the urgency of preparation in the region. With the increasing frequency and intensity of cyclones in the Indian Ocean, continuous monitoring and effective disaster management will be essential in mitigating future impacts on affected communities.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
