Cyclone Dikeledi Makes Landfall in Madagascar, Mayotte Faces Severe Weather Threats
Cyclone Dikeledi struck Madagascar, unleashing winds of up to 155 km/h. The system poses threats of heavy rainfall and strong winds in Mayotte, expected to escalate as it passes near the island. An Orange Cyclonic Alert is active in Mayotte due to the anticipated severe weather, following the recent devastation caused by Cyclone Chido.
Cyclone Dikeledi made landfall in Madagascar’s Antsiranana province on January 11, 2024, unleashing destructive winds reaching up to 155 km/h (96 mph), torrential rainfall, and hazardous sea conditions. Impact assessments forecast that the destructive weather will extend across the region in the following days. The system is projected to traverse over the Mozambique Channel, likely escalating to a tropical storm by January 13, before intensifying into an intense tropical cyclone early next week, as it shifts direction towards the southeast.
In Mayotte, significant weather impacts are anticipated on January 12, with gusts possibly hitting 110 km/h (68 mph). Heavy rains threaten to induce flash floods and landslides, particularly in the western lagoon, which also faces risks of marine submersion. Currently, an Orange Cyclonic Alert is active for Mayotte due to these impending threats.
Upon making landfall, Cyclone Dikeledi was located approximately 1,085 km (674 miles) from La Reunion and 460 km (286 miles) offshore from Mayotte. As of the last report, it was observed bearing winds of 110 km/h (68 mph) and maintaining a central pressure of 990 hPa. The cyclone continues to impact Madagascar with severe weather, although conditions are expected to gradually improve by the evening of January 12.
Mayotte is particularly vulnerable to wind and rainfall deterioration on January 12, with forecasts predicting between 80 to 110 km/h (50 – 68 mph) gusts. The potential for flash flooding and landslides remains high. Meanwhile, heavy rainfall is also expected in the Comoros and the possibility of adverse weather conditions impacting Mozambique cannot be discounted.
This weather disruption follows closely on the heels of Cyclone Chido, which devastated Mayotte in mid-December, claiming at least 39 lives and causing extensive damage. Dikeledi’s arrival marks it as the second cyclone of the season to affect the islands.
Cyclone Dikeledi represents a significant meteorological event as it affects Madagascar and the surrounding regions, including Mayotte and the Comoros. Cyclones in this region are common, particularly during certain seasonal patterns, often resulting in severe atmospheric disturbances. Past cyclones, such as Cyclone Chido, have already instigated substantial chaos and loss of life in Mayotte. Thus, Dikeledi’s trajectory is closely monitored as it could lead to further devastation in an area already strained by previous impacts. The Mozambique Channel serves as a critical area that can intensify tropical systems, prompting necessary alerts for the surrounding islands.
In summary, Cyclone Dikeledi has made landfall in Madagascar, bringing damaging winds and heavy rainfall with expected ramifications for Mayotte and surrounding areas. The impending weather conditions, including strong gusts and torrential rain, necessitate vigilance and preparedness as the cyclone advances over the Mozambique Channel. The repeated occurrence of cyclones in such a short timeframe poses increasing risk to the vulnerable regions, especially following the devastation of Cyclone Chido.
Original Source: watchers.news
