Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi Leaves a Trail of Destruction in Madagascar and Mozambique

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck Mozambique after causing three deaths and significant destruction in Madagascar. The cyclone made landfall in Madagascar with winds up to 155 km/h, damaging over 370 homes and displacing thousands. As it moved towards Mozambique, it prompted high-level warnings for upcoming rainfall and flooding in Nampula and Zambezia provinces.

On January 13, 2025, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi impacted the coast of Mozambique after causing significant destruction in Madagascar, where it resulted in at least three fatalities and damaged numerous buildings. Having made landfall in Madagascar’s northern Antsiranana province on January 11, Dikeledi generated winds of up to 155 km/h (96 mph), leading to devastating consequences for the local population and infrastructure.

Reports indicate the cyclone left behind swift damage with 11 homes destroyed and over 370 others suffering various degrees of damage. Further, 69 schools were reported either damaged or completely destroyed, affecting more than 5,210 individuals. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has underscored the widespread infrastructure damage and ongoing risks of flooding.

Following its passage over northern Madagascar, the cyclone continued southeast of Mayotte, where emergency shelters were activated for approximately 14,500 evacuees, necessitated by its intensifying effects. The Dzaoudzi–Pamandzi International Airport canceled flights on the same day but planned a gradual resumption of services. In anticipation of the storm’s impact, schools in affected regions are being delayed in reopening until at least January 20.

Dikeledi made its way to Mozambique on January 13, grazing the coast near Nacala in Nampula Province with escalating winds reaching 160 km/h (98 mph). Subsequent forecasts predict heavy rainfall, exceeding 200 mm (8 inches) within 24 hours, accompanied by thunderstorms and additional severe winds. The Mozambique National Institute of Meteorology responded with a Red cyclone alert for Nampula and parts of Zambezia, thus heightening governmental and humanitarian response efforts to mitigate flooding risks in the region.

Tropical cyclones are severe weather systems significantly impacting coastal nations, particularly in the Southern Hemisphere. Cyclone Dikeledi exemplifies such a system, affecting not only Madagascar but also threatening Mozambique with severe weather conditions. As tropical storms traverse across regions, they can cause extensive loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, and substantial humanitarian challenges. The coordination of emergency measures and timely alerts plays a crucial role in managing the aftermath of these natural disasters.

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has had a profound impact on Madagascar, resulting in fatalities, severe property damage, and critical infrastructure destruction. As the cyclone transitioned towards Mozambique, officials issued high-level warnings in anticipation of further challenges posed by heavy rainfall and wind. These events underscore the vulnerability of affected regions to cyclical climatic phenomena, reinforcing the necessity for effective disaster management and preparedness strategies.

Original Source: watchers.news