Cyclone Jude has hit Mozambique, causing six deaths and extensive damage. Initially a depression, it intensified into a cyclone, making landfall with winds like a Category 1 hurricane. Approximately 40,000 individuals lost power, and significant rainfall caused flooding. Jude may regain strength as it approaches southern Madagascar soon, while South Africa faces heavy thunderstorms and flooding.
Cyclone Jude has struck Mozambique, disrupting normal activities across the southeastern African country, which borders the Indian Ocean. Initially recognized as a depression on March 14 near Diego Garcia, it transformed into a moderate tropical storm by March 15, affecting northern Madagascar. The cyclone has been associated with six deaths and the destruction of 900 houses.
As Cyclone Jude progressed westward across the Mozambique Channel, it intensified into a tropical cyclone, driven by sea surface temperatures approaching 30°C—providing the necessary conditions for its strong growth. Upon landfall in Mozambique early this morning, it produced sustained winds of 120 km/h and gusts up to 193 km/h, paralleling the force of a Category 1 hurricane. Coastal regions such as Memba, Monapo, Mossuril, Mozambique Island, and Nacala received over 200 mm of rain in just 24 hours, leading to severe flooding.
Due to the cyclone’s impact, flights were canceled, and around 40,000 residents were reported to be without electricity. Despite its current weakening, predictions indicate that Cyclone Jude may curve back over the Mozambique Channel towards southern Madagascar later this week. Some weather models suggest the cyclone could regain strength as it nears Madagascar’s coastline by Friday night, raising concerns for additional destruction.
Additionally, on March 13, South Africa faced significant thunderstorms, prompting KwaZulu-Natal province to issue a Level 6 alert for heavy rainfall and flooding. A cold front in the area drew warm air that rapidly condensed, igniting the storms. The province reported approximately 100 mm of rainfall over a 24-hour period.
In summary, Cyclone Jude has wreaked havoc in Mozambique, causing fatalities, widespread flooding, and significant infrastructure damage. While it has weakened, forecasts indicate a potential resurgence of strength as it moves toward Madagascar, raising the possibility of further impact. Additionally, nearby South Africa has encountered severe weather, leading to alerts for flooding.
Original Source: www.downtoearth.org.in
