Madagascar faces the impending arrival of Tropical Cyclone Faida on February 4, following the aftermath of Cyclone Elvis, which claimed five lives. Elvis, with winds of 84 km/h, caused extensive rainfall and damage before dissipating. Efforts to improve storm forecasting in Southern Africa are underway as the region contends with frequent and severe weather events exacerbated by climate change.
Madagascar is preparing for the impact of Tropical Cyclone Faida, expected to hit its northern coast on February 4. This comes in the wake of Cyclone Elvis, which recently caused significant damage and resulted in at least five fatalities. The European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations reported that the deceased were victims of lightning strikes during Elvis’s passage in the Vohibato district.
Cyclone Elvis emerged in the Mozambique Channel on January 28 and made landfall on Madagascar’s southwestern coast a day later, bringing substantial rainfall and winds as strong as 84 kilometers per hour (52 miles per hour). The cities of Toliara and Taolagnaro recorded excessive rainfall, measuring 196 millimeters (7.7 inches) and 178 millimeters (7 inches), respectively, over five days. Following its landfall, Cyclone Elvis dissipated over the southern Indian Ocean.
As Cyclone Faida approaches, it is reported to have sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour (40 miles per hour) and may intensify as it heads towards the west. Regions that are forecasted to be affected by Faida post-landfall include Analamanga, Alaotra Mangoro, Analanjirofo, Atsinanana, and Sofia. Local authorities in Réunion Island have advised residents to remain vigilant and prepare emergency supplies in anticipation of adverse weather conditions.
Recent cyclones have been increasingly destructive in Madagascar and neighboring southern African nations. Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, which occurred shortly before Elvis, caused significant flooding and landslides, resulting in at least ten fatalities. Reports indicated that Dikeledi severely impacted local wildlife, including a tortoise sanctuary where many tortoises drowned, necessitating rescue efforts for over 10,000 individuals.
A meeting held last week in Zambia convened meteorological specialists, scientists, and economists to improve forecasting methods in Southern Africa. The U.K. Met Office has issued alerts regarding the expected increase in storm activity in the region, attributing part of this to ongoing climate change challenges. In December, Cyclone Chido also caused widespread devastation, further highlighting the susceptibility of these areas to severe weather events.
The increasing frequency and severity of cyclones in Madagascar and surrounding areas pose significant threats to both human lives and biodiversity. Tropical Cyclones Elvis and Faida exemplify the devastating impact of such storms. The region has been under scrutiny as meteorological experts seek to enhance forecasting abilities to better prepare for these extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change effects. The historical context of other recent cyclones, like Dikeledi and Chido, adds to the urgency of addressing the challenges faced by both residents and wildlife, necessitating immediate actions and support from international agencies.
The ongoing threat of Tropical Cyclone Faida and the recent devastation caused by Cyclone Elvis underscore the urgent need for improved meteorological responses and disaster preparedness in Madagascar. With increasing storm activity attributed to climate change, the region’s challenges require proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with severe weather and protect both communities and biodiversity amidst evolving environmental conditions.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
