Skip to main content

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi Churns Towards Madagascar

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, currently intensifying in the southwest Indian Ocean, poses a significant

threat to Madagascar, Mayotte, and parts of northern Mozambique in the coming days. Here is a comprehensive update on its trajectory, intensity, and expected impacts.

Current Status


As of January 11, 2025, Dikeledi has strengthened to a tropical cyclone with an estimated central pressure of 984 hPa. Located at 12.7°S and 51.5°E, the system is moving westward at 12 knots (22 km/h). Hurricane-force winds of 65 knots (120 km/h) are being observed near the center, with storm-force winds extending outward up to 65 NM (nautical miles) in the southeast quadrant.

Impacted Areas

  1. Madagascar
    Dikeledi is forecast to make landfall on January 12 near northeastern Madagascar, between Antsiranana and Antalaha, as a severe tropical storm. The regions of Diana, SAVA, Ambatosoa, Sofia, and Boeny are under green alert, signaling preparedness for possible flooding, strong winds, and storm surges. Residents in these areas should remain vigilant and adhere to local advisories.

  2. Mayotte
    The French island of Mayotte has been placed under an orange alert as the cyclone approaches. Heavy rains, strong winds, and potential flooding are expected to impact the island over the weekend. Authorities are urging residents to take precautionary measures.

  3. Mozambique and Western Madagascar
    After impacting northern Madagascar, Dikeledi is projected to veer southward, brushing past northern Mozambique and western Madagascar next week. This trajectory could bring additional heavy rainfall and coastal flooding to these areas.

Marine and Weather Conditions

The cyclone is producing squally weather within a 170 NM radius of its center, with rough to phenomenal seas. Gale-force winds extend up to 90 NM southeast of the center, posing significant risks to marine activities. All vessels in the region are advised to seek safe harbor immediately.

Forecast Outlook

By January 12, Dikeledi is expected to maintain its intensity as a severe tropical storm with maximum winds of 55 knots (102 km/h). The system's wide reach means that even areas not directly in its path could experience adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Preparedness Measures

  • Madagascar: Local authorities and humanitarian agencies are on high alert. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has issued warnings for the northeastern regions of Madagascar.
  • Mayotte: Residents are being advised to secure property, avoid coastal areas, and monitor official updates closely.
  • General Recommendations: Stay informed through reliable sources, avoid non-essential travel in affected areas, and prepare emergency kits with necessary supplies.

Cyclone Dikeledi represents a severe weather threat to several regions in the southwest Indian Ocean. Its impacts could disrupt lives and infrastructure, particularly in Madagascar and Mayotte. Authorities and residents should remain prepared and vigilant as the storm progresses.

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Distress Alert: Sailing Vessel Kiliki Overdue and in Need of Assistance

UPDATE:  The crew members were rescued.
Post a Comment
Read more
  On the night of March 6, 2025, at 22:16 UTC, a crew member of the merchant vessel MV Ariadne fell overboard in the central Adriatic Sea, approximately 30 nautical miles off the Italian coast, at latitude 41°39'N and longitude 16°50'E. Current weather conditions in the area are favorable, aiding search and rescue operations. The Italian Coast Guard promptly initiated search operations, deploying naval units and helicopters to locate the missing mariner. All vessels transiting the area have been alerted and are requested to maintain vigilant watch, reporting any sightings to the National Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (IMRCC) in Rome. The Coast Guard commander emphasized the importance of collaboration among maritime units in emergencies like this, noting that swift intervention is crucial to increasing the chances of successful rescue operations. Search efforts will continue unabated until the missing mariner is found or until authorities deem it necessary to conclude ...
Post a Comment
Read more

PAN-PAN Alert: Sailing Vessel SKYFALL Requests Assistance in South Atlantic

February 28, 2025 – A PAN-PAN distress message has been issued for the sailing vessel Skyfall (MMSI: 235099478), a 13-meter sailing yacht flying the United Kingdom flag. The vessel is experiencing critical rigging issues and is at risk of losing its mast. The crew has requested urgent assistance. Distress Details Message Received: February 25, 2025, at 05:57 UTC Vessel Name: Skyfall (Call Sign: 2GPT6) Position: 22° 22' 26.4" S, 001° 31' 42.0" W Crew Onboard: 2 persons Issue: Loose rigging, expected mast loss Assistance Required: Additional diesel jerry cans from nearby vessels Weather Conditions in the Area Wind: 15 knots, gusting to 19 knots from ESE Wave Height: 1.9 meters Sky Conditions: Mostly clear to partly cloudy Call for Assistance Any vessels in the vicinity are strongly encouraged to assist. Skyfall requires extra fuel to maintain power and stability as the crew deals with their rigging failure. Mariners able to provide aid should report to ...
Post a Comment
Read more