Madagascar is dealing with the aftermath of Cyclone Elvis, which killed five people, while preparing for the imminent Tropical Cyclone Faida. Elvis caused significant rainfall and damage before dissipating. Faida is forecasted to strengthen as it approaches, prompting preventative measures across the region. Previous storms, like Dikeledi, have also wreaked havoc, highlighting the ongoing climate challenges in Southern Africa.
Madagascar is currently preparing for Tropical Cyclone Faida, expected to impact its northern coast on February 4, amidst recovering from the recent storm, Cyclone Elvis, which resulted in at least five fatalities. According to the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), the casualties occurred due to incidents associated with lightning in the Vohibato district, leaving two individuals injured as well.
Cyclone Elvis emerged over the Mozambique Channel on January 28 and made landfall on Madagascar’s southwestern coast the following day. It produced severe rainfall and strong winds, with maximum sustained speeds reaching 84 kilometers per hour (52 miles per hour). Significant rainfall was recorded, with Toliara and Taolagnaro registering 196 and 178 millimeters (7.7 and 7 inches) over five days before dissipating over the southern Indian Ocean.
While recovering from Elvis, Madagascar is bracing for Cyclone Faida, forming on January 23 over the southern Indian Ocean. This cyclone traveled to Mauritius and Réunion Island before targeting northern Madagascar. As of February 3, ECHO reported Faida with maximum sustained winds of 65 km/h (40 mph), anticipating intensification as it approaches the island.
Authorities on Réunion Island have alerted residents to stay vigilant for weather updates and prepare emergency supplies. In the preceding weeks, Cyclone Dikeledi significantly impacted Madagascar and southern Africa, resulting in flooding and landslides, with a reported death toll of ten in Madagascar alone.
Meteorological experts recently convened in Zambia to enhance storm forecasting methodologies for Southern Africa. The U.K. Met Office emphasized that, “the [southern African] region is expected to experience increased storms as climate change continues to take root.” The recent cyclone activity highlights the escalating weather challenges in this region.
Tropical cyclones pose a significant threat to Madagascar and surrounding regions, exacerbated by climate change. The frequency and intensity of these storms have increased, resulting in devastating impacts such as loss of life, injuries, and environmental damage. The recent events surrounding Cyclones Elvis, Faida, and Dikeledi illustrate the urgent need for improved monitoring and preparedness to mitigate these impacts on affected communities.
In summary, Cyclone Elvis has sadly claimed five lives in Madagascar, while the region prepares for the impending arrival of Tropical Cyclone Faida. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, increased frequency of such storms poses ongoing challenges. Enhanced forecasting and preparedness measures are essential to protect communities from the adverse effects of these natural disasters.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
