Cyclone Jude Strikes Mozambique, Forecasts Indicate Potential Reintensification
Cyclone Jude has impacted Mozambique, causing fatalities and flooding. Initially forming in the Indian Ocean, it intensified, causing winds of 120 km/h and over 200 mm of rain. After weakening, it may regain strength before approaching Madagascar. South Africa is also facing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
Cyclone Jude has struck Mozambique, disrupting everyday life in the southeastern African nation along the Indian Ocean. Initially identified as a depression on March 14, the cyclone intensified into a tropical storm and impacted northern Madagascar on March 15, resulting in six fatalities and widespread destruction of approximately 900 houses.
As it progressed westward across the Mozambique Channel, Cyclone Jude grew into a tropical cyclone, gaining strength from sea surface temperatures nearing 30°C. Upon making landfall in Mozambique early today, the cyclone generated sustained winds of 120 km/h, with gusts up to 193 km/h, correlating to a Category 1 hurricane. Coastal towns such as Memba and Monapo faced over 200 mm of rainfall within a day, leading to severe flooding.
In the aftermath, flights were cancelled, and nearly 40,000 residents lost power. Despite a recent weakening, meteorological forecasts predict that Jude will re-enter the Mozambique Channel and may gain strength again as it moves toward southern Madagascar later this week. Some predictions suggest Jude could reach cyclone status again by Friday night, potentially bringing additional devastation to the area.
Concurrent weather events were reported in South Africa, where intense thunderstorms hit on March 13. The KwaZulu-Natal province was issued a Level 6 alert for heavy rain and flooding, caused by a cold front that triggered rapid condensation of warm air. This resulted in around 100 mm of rain falling in just 24 hours.
Cyclone Jude has caused significant damage in Mozambique, including loss of life and extensive flooding in coastal areas. While it has weakened, there remains a risk of renewed intensification as it heads towards Madagascar. South Africa is also experiencing severe weather conditions, highlighting the broader impact of changing climate patterns in the region.
Original Source: www.downtoearth.org.in
