Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi impacted northern Madagascar on January 11, affecting over 5,000 people, resulting in three deaths and displacing 352 individuals. The cyclone caused significant infrastructure damage, including destruction to schools. As it moved into Mozambique on January 13, severe weather conditions were reported in Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia provinces, with forecasts indicating heavy rains and strong winds continuing in the area.
On January 11, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi swept through northern Madagascar, resulting in significant rainfall and strong winds. The storm has impacted over 5,000 individuals, unfortunately leading to three fatalities and displacing 352 people. The destructive winds have also caused extensive damage to educational infrastructure, with more than 60 schools destroyed, leaving 750 children unable to attend school. Humanitarian agencies are currently engaged in providing assistance to the affected communities.
Following its passage through Madagascar, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi reached Nampula Province in Mozambique on January 13, where it continued to exhibit severe weather conditions, including torrential rains. Reports indicate that Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia Provinces are experiencing extreme weather, characterized by heavy rains and strong winds, particularly close to the cyclone’s impact zone, with gusts expected to reach 180 km/h and rainfall exceeding 200 mm within a 24-hour period.
The storm has inflicted widespread damage, with approximately 1,300 houses flooded, 370 damaged, and at least 11 completely destroyed. In addition to the loss of residential buildings, five health clinics have sustained damage, illustrating the storm’s impact on essential services. Furthermore, the primary road linking the capital with northern regions has been temporarily interrupted by flooding in the Ambilobe District.
Forecasts from Meteo France suggest that as Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi transitions over Nampula Province on January 13, it will curve towards the south, re-entering the Mozambique Channel. By January 14 or 15, the cyclone is anticipated to regain strength, potentially reaching intense cyclone status while accelerating its course towards the southern coastline near Toliara, Madagascar. Heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms are expected in Sofala and Manica provinces on January 15 and 16.
Overall, the impact of Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi presents significant challenges for Madagascar and neighboring Mozambique, requiring urgent humanitarian response and long-term recovery efforts to support affected individuals and communities affected by the storm.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has critically affected northern Madagascar and is currently threatening Mozambique. The cyclone has caused severe damage, including deaths, injuries, infrastructure destruction, and educational disruptions. Humanitarian efforts are underway, but ongoing monitoring and preparedness will be vital as the storm progresses southward towards Mozambique’s Nampula and adjoining areas.
Original Source: www.unocha.org
