Tropical Cyclone Elvis Forms: Monitoring and Preparedness Urged

Tropical Cyclone Elvis has formed in the Mozambique Channel and is expected to become a moderate tropical storm by January 28. Currently located near Madagascar, it has produced heavy rainfall, especially in Toliara. The storm poses a risk of flooding and strong winds, prompting local authorities to advise preparedness among residents.

Meteorologists are actively monitoring Tropical Cyclone Elvis, which developed as the sixth depressional system of the cyclone season in the Mozambique Channel. As of January 28, 2025, the system was located approximately 250 kilometers off the coast of Madagascar and is expected to strengthen into a moderate tropical storm by the end of the day. Météo France reported that, over the last 48 hours, Elvis has gained strength and is currently moving south-southeast at 11 km/h.

As of 4 AM local time, the cyclone’s coordinates were recorded at 24.2 degrees South and 41.8 degrees East, with maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h and gusts reaching up to 75 km/h. This significant weather event has already resulted in intense rainfall, with the Eastern Madagascar province of Toliara experiencing over 500 millimeters of rain in a mere 24 hours ahead of the storm’s approach, heightening fears of potential flooding.

Meteorologists advise caution regarding predictions for the cyclone’s intensity and trajectory. Data suggests that Elvis will continue to move south-southeast, positioning itself closer to Toliara’s coastline. Météo France stated, “This system is expected to evolve over the next 12 hours, gradually intensifying and potentially reaching tropical storm status by the end of Tuesday,” urging residents to stay vigilant and monitor updates.

Looking ahead, projections indicate that Elvis will shift to a southwest trajectory beginning Wednesday, likely resulting in heightened weather conditions along coastal areas. Continuous heavy rains may worsen existing flooding risks due to prior downpours. Authorities caution that powerful winds and rough seas may impact the provinces of Toliara and Inhambane, advising coastal residents to take necessary precautions as conditions could rapidly change.

Forecasts outline Elvis as a moderate tropical storm with its center expected at 24.2° S and 41.8° E on January 28 at 4 PM. By January 29 at 4 PM, the center is predicted to shift to 26.1° S and 42.8° E, with evolving conditions continuing through January 31 and potentially transitioning to post-tropical status by February 2. There remains considerable risk from hurricane-strength winds and sustained heavy rainfall, underscoring the need for preparedness among coastal communities.

Residents in the path of Tropical Cyclone Elvis are advised to remain alert and keep updated through their national meteorological services. As atmospheric conditions continue to change, monitoring will be essential, and responses will be tailored accordingly.

Tropical Cyclone Elvis is the sixth depressional system in the 2025 cyclone season forming in the Mozambique Channel. It has already caused substantial rainfall and is bringing concerns of flooding and severe weather to coastal regions, particularly in Madagascar. The cyclone is projected to strengthen, prompting attention from meteorological services and calls for local preparedness.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Elvis is intensifying as it approaches Madagascar, raising concerns of severe weather and flooding along the coast. Authorities have cautioned residents to remain vigilant and prepare for rapidly changing conditions as heavy rains, strong winds, and the risk of displacement loom. Continuous updates from meteorological services are crucial for ensuring safety in affected communities.

Original Source: evrimagaci.org