Cyclone Jude has struck Mozambique, causing six deaths and extensive damage, including the destruction of 900 houses. The cyclone brought strong winds and heavy rainfall, impacting numerous coastal areas. Although it has weakened, forecasts indicate it might regain strength as it moves towards southern Madagascar. South Africa also faced severe thunderstorms, raising alerts for potential flooding.
Mozambique has experienced significant disruption due to Cyclone Jude, the third cyclone to impact the nation this season. Initially identified as a depression on March 14 off Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, it intensified into a tropical storm, affecting northern Madagascar on March 15. The cyclone has resulted in six fatalities and the destruction of approximately 900 residences.
As Cyclone Jude moved westward across the Mozambique Channel, it developed into a tropical cyclone, propelled by sea surface temperatures of nearly 30°C, which supplied the necessary heat and moisture. Upon making landfall in Mozambique early today, it brought sustained winds of 120 km/h and gusts up to 193 km/h, similar to a Category 1 hurricane, causing severe flooding in coastal areas such as Memba, Monapo, and Nacala, where over 200 mm of rainfall fell within 24 hours.
This natural disaster has led to the cancellation of flights and left about 40,000 individuals without power. Although Cyclone Jude has since weakened, forecasts indicate a potential return to strength as it curves back over the Mozambique Channel, moving towards southern Madagascar later this week. Predictions suggest that it could regain tropical cyclone status by the time it reaches Madagascar’s coastline on Friday evening, raising concerns for further damage.
Additionally, South Africa faced severe thunderstorms on March 13, prompting a Level 6 alert for heavy rainfall and flooding in the KwaZulu-Natal province. A cold front passing through the region triggered these storms, resulting in approximately 100 mm of rain within a 24-hour period.
Cyclone Jude has had a devastating impact on Mozambique, causing significant casualties, property destruction, and severe flooding. As the cyclone’s trajectory continues, there is a possibility of it regaining strength and affecting southern Madagascar. Furthermore, adverse weather conditions in South Africa compound the challenges faced in the region. Continuous monitoring and preparedness are essential in mitigating the effects of such natural disasters.
Original Source: www.downtoearth.org.in
