Madagascar Faces Two Cyclones and Rising Storm Threats

Madagascar is dealing with the aftermath of Cyclone Elvis, which killed at least five individuals. The nation is now bracing for Cyclone Faida, predicted to strengthen before making landfall on February 4. Past cyclones, including Dikeledi, have already caused significant damage and fatalities in the region. Meteorological experts are working on improving forecasting methods due to the increasing frequency of storms linked to climate change.

Madagascar is currently facing the impact of Tropical Cyclone Faida, which is expected to make landfall on the northern coast on February 4. This comes on the heels of Cyclone Elvis, which recently dissipated and resulted in at least five fatalities due to lightning incidents in the Vohibato district.

Cyclone Elvis originated over the Mozambique Channel on January 28 and struck Madagascar’s southwestern coast the next day. It brought significant rainfall and strong winds; Toliara and Taolagnaro recorded 196 mm and 178 mm of rain, respectively, over five days, with maximum sustained winds of 84 km/h.

Elvis weakened over the southern Indian Ocean this past weekend. Meanwhile, Cyclone Faida, having developed on January 23, made its journey through Mauritius and Réunion Island before approaching northern Madagascar. It currently has winds of 65 km/h and may intensify while heading west.

Authorities in Réunion Island are urging residents to prepare emergency supplies and heed weather advisories. Cyclone Dikeledi, which struck earlier, had already caused significant damage in Madagascar, with reports of flooding and landslides leading to at least ten deaths and distress for wildlife sanctuaries.

Meteorologists and scientists in Zambia recently convened to enhance weather forecasting methodologies for Southern Africa, particularly in light of the increased frequency of storms attributed to climate change. The UK Met Office warns that this trend will continue, compounding the region’s vulnerability, as seen with Tropical Cyclone Chido’s impact in December.

The article discusses the ongoing challenges faced by Madagascar due to severe weather events, particularly two recent cyclones: Elvis and Faida. Cyclone Elvis resulted in fatalities and injuries, while Cyclone Faida poses impending threats. The context is further enhanced by references to previous cyclones and regional efforts to improve storm forecasting due to climate change implications, highlighting the increasing frequency and intensity of such weather phenomena in Southern Africa.

Madagascar is currently grappling with the impacts of Cyclone Elvis, which resulted in fatalities due to lightning incidents, while preparing for the impending landfall of Cyclone Faida. This situation underscores the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change. Continued efforts to enhance forecasting capabilities are essential to mitigate the repercussions of future storms.

Original Source: news.mongabay.com