Tracking Tropical Cyclone Jude: Impacts and Overview

Tropical Cyclone Jude formed in the Mozambique Channel with winds up to 63 mph. Cyclones are prevalent in the Southern Hemisphere, where they can cause heavy rainfall and flooding far from the center. The cyclone season extends from late October to May, peaking between February and March.

Tropical Cyclone Jude emerged in the Mozambique Channel on Sunday morning, identified by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, packing sustained winds of 63 miles per hour. The formation of this cyclone is noteworthy, given that only about a quarter of the Earth’s tropical cyclones develop in the Southern Hemisphere.

Rainfall associated with Cyclone Jude has the potential to cause flash flooding even in areas located far inland from the storm’s center. This risk is significant, as weaker storms can still yield enough precipitation to inundate low-lying regions. It is also essential to note that while these storms are referred to as cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere, they would be categorized as hurricanes in the Atlantic when winds reach 74 miles per hour or higher.

Cyclones primarily impact eastern Africa, particularly Madagascar, and extend their influence to the western, northern, and eastern shores of Australia and nearby island nations. The cyclone season in this hemisphere contrasts with that of the Northern Hemisphere, commencing typically in late October and concluding in May. Cyclone activity generally peaks in late February and early March, varying by region.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Jude represents a noteworthy meteorological event within the Southern Hemisphere cyclone season. It brings significant risks, including flash flooding due to heavy rainfall, and highlights the unique characteristics of tropical cyclones in this region compared to hurricanes in the Northern Hemisphere. With the season running from late October through May, awareness and preparedness remain crucial for affected areas.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com