Tropical Storm Dikeledi is currently approaching Mozambique after causing fatalities in Madagascar and flooding in Mayotte. The region remains under a red alert as it grapples with the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which had previously resulted in significant casualties. Authorities are on high alert as Dikeledi is expected to strengthen further, emphasizing the ongoing vulnerability to such climatic events.
Tropical storm Dikeledi has moved towards Mozambique after having caused three fatalities in Madagascar and severe flooding in Mayotte, following closely on the heels of Cyclone Chido which wreaked havoc in the region earlier. Dikeledi made landfall in Madagascar as a full-fledged cyclone over the weekend, resulting in strong winds and heavy rainfall. The storm has since weakened but continues to pose a substantial threat, particularly to Mayotte, where a red alert remains in effect, urging residents to exercise caution amid possible further inundation and damages.
The Indian Ocean cyclone season generally spans from November to March, during which cyclones are prone to forming due to optimal warm water conditions. This season, the rise in surface water temperatures nearing 30 degrees Celsius has contributed to the unprecedented intensity of storms like Dikeledi and Chido. These storms have inflicted substantial damage on the southeastern African regions, highlighting the area’s vulnerability to climatic events exacerbated by global warming. The aftermath of Cyclone Chido has left communities in distress, already facing the realities of recovery before encountering further threats from new cyclones.
In summary, Tropical Storm Dikeledi has intensified the challenges faced by regions already reeling from Cyclone Chido. The fatalities and destruction wrought by these storms underscore the growing severity of climatic events in the Indian Ocean. The continued red alert in Mayotte reflects the vital need for caution as the storm approaches Mozambique, with authorities mobilizing extensive resources to mitigate damages and provide refuge to those affected.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com