Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck Mozambique on January 13, 2025, following devastating impacts in Madagascar, where three deaths were reported. The cyclone caused extensive damage to homes and critical infrastructure in both regions. The Mozambique National Institute of Meteorology has issued high-level alerts due to severe weather disruptions predicted across affected provinces.
Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi impacted Mozambique on January 13, 2025, following a significant landfall in Madagascar, where it resulted in the death of at least three individuals and substantial property damage. The cyclone made its initial landfall in Madagascar’s Antsiranana province on January 11, exhibiting wind speeds reaching 155 km/h (96 mph). Preliminary reports from Madagascar indicate that the cyclone destroyed 11 homes, caused damage to 370 additional structures, and adversely affected approximately 5,210 people, with 69 schools either damaged or destroyed. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) highlighted critical infrastructure damage, with flooding exacerbated by ongoing rainfall bands across Mahajanga and Toliara provinces.
After traversing Madagascar, Cyclone Dikeledi moved southeast of Mayotte, where a previous cyclone had already caused significant destruction, compelling the evacuation of approximately 14,500 individuals to emergency shelters. This led to canceled flights at Dzaoudzi–Pamandzi International Airport, with a gradual resumption of services expected shortly thereafter.
Upon reaching Mozambique, the cyclone brushed the coast near Nacala, Nampula Province, with wind gusts intensified to 160 km/h (98 mph). Reports indicate severe disruptions in Nampula and Zambezia provinces, leading to localized flooding. The Mozambique National Institute of Meteorology (INAM) issued a Red cyclone warning for Nampula Province and portions of Zambezia Province, forecasting heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm (8 inches) along with potential thunderstorms and strong winds in specific districts of Nampula.
Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi serves as a reminder of the increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events attributed to climate change, especially in vulnerable regions such as those in southern Africa. Historically, Madagascar and Mozambique have faced severe impacts from cyclones, leading to loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure and homes. The UN OCHA has been actively involved in providing humanitarian assessments and support in response to such crises. Understanding the broader implications of cyclones on food security, public health, and economic stability remains crucial for future resilience and recovery efforts in the affected areas.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has caused significant destruction across Madagascar and Mozambique, highlighting the urgent need for preparedness and response strategies in cyclone-prone regions. The cyclone has resulted in fatalities, widespread property damage, and displacement, with international agencies stepping in to address the humanitarian crisis. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, strengthening infrastructure and preparedness measures will be essential in mitigating future impacts of cyclones.
Original Source: watchers.news
