Tropical Storm Dikeledi struck northern Mozambique, having previously caused three fatalities in Madagascar. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, prompting warnings from meteorological authorities. President Nyusi urged residents to take precautions. The cyclone season is experiencing intensified activity correlated with rising sea temperatures, indicative of climatic shifts due to global warming.
Tropical Storm Dikeledi made landfall in northern Mozambique on Monday, causing catastrophic impacts after it had previously resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals in Madagascar and instigated flooding in Mayotte, a French territory. As it approached the Mozambican coastline, the storm escalated in intensity, producing damaging winds and intense rainfall, as reported by the French weather authority, Meteo-France. Mozambique’s National Institute of Meteorology (INAM) issued urgent flood alerts, predicting significant precipitation and strong winds. The storm is reminiscent of Cyclone Chido, which devastated northern Mozambique in December, claiming 120 lives. President Filipe Nyusi has urged residents in affected areas to seek safe shelter and prepare essential supplies. “Go immediately to a safe shelter and stay there until the authorities give you further instructions,” stated the President during a parliamentary opening in Maputo. Dikeledi initially struck Madagascar on Saturday, causing strong winds and torrential rains, with further forecasting indicating potential impacts along Madagascar’s southwest coast as the storm continues its southern trajectory. Cyclones typically develop in the Indian Ocean between November and March, and this season’s elevated surface water temperatures may be exacerbating storm intensity, a correlation observed globally due to climate change.
The occurrence of cyclones in the Indian Ocean typically unfolds from November to March, during which time, climatic conditions tend to be more conducive to their development. This year, the escalation in surface water temperatures, reaching nearly 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), has contributed to heightened storm intensity. The phenomena associated with climate change are manifesting globally in different oceanic regions, indicating a crucial trend that could provoke increased frequency and intensity of such weather events.
In summary, Tropical Storm Dikeledi has emerged as a significant threat as it makes landfall in northern Mozambique, culminating in serious repercussions including fatalities and extensive flooding. Previous weather events, such as Cyclone Chido, highlight the vulnerability of the region to cyclones and their devastating effects. Authorities are stressing the importance of preparedness and safety for residents in the storm’s projected path, accentuating the growing challenges posed by climate change and meteorological extremes.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
