Cyclone Jude Strikes Northern Mozambique Amid Ongoing Weather Crisis

Northern Mozambique was struck by Cyclone Jude, its third cyclone in four months, with severe weather conditions reported. The cyclone made landfall with winds up to 195 kilometers per hour but weakened to a storm. Previous cyclones in the region resulted in significant casualties and property destruction.

Northern Mozambique has recently experienced its third cyclone in just four months, as heavy rains and strong winds impacted the region. According to the National Institute of Meteorology (INAM), Cyclone Jude made landfall with winds reaching 140 kilometers (87 miles) per hour and gusts up to 195 kilometers per hour. The cyclone subsequently weakened into a severe tropical storm accompanied by thunderstorms.

As of Monday afternoon, there were no reported casualties linked to Cyclone Jude. The cyclone season in the southwestern Indian Ocean typically spans from November to April, presenting approximately a dozen storms annually. Previous storms, such as Cyclone Chido in December, resulted in at least 120 fatalities and the destruction of nearly 120,000 homes.

Cyclone Dikeledi, which struck in mid-January, caused the deaths of five individuals and left around 3,500 homes damaged. The regional cyclone center in the French Indian Ocean island of La Réunion stated, “Over the next few days, Jude should weaken as it moves inland and should circulate close to the border between Mozambique and Malawi.” It warned that the cyclone might intensify as it progresses southwest towards Madagascar.

In summary, Northern Mozambique is facing significant challenges with Cyclone Jude marking the third cyclone in a brief period. The aftermath of previous cyclones remains a severe concern, with considerable loss of life and substantial property damage. Cyclone Jude’s trajectory may pose further risks as it continues inland, with advisories in place regarding its potential intensification over Madagascar.

Original Source: www.ecr.co.za