Cyclone Jude Strikes Mozambique: Impacts and Future Forecasts
Cyclone Jude has struck Mozambique, causing flooding and infrastructure damage, including six fatalities and 900 destroyed homes. The cyclone reached landfall with winds comparable to a Category 1 hurricane, affecting numerous coastal areas. Although it has weakened, forecasts suggest potential reintensification as it approaches Madagascar. South Africa also endured heavy storms around this time.
Cyclone Jude has impacted Mozambique, disrupting daily life in the southeastern African nation along the Indian Ocean. Initially recognized as a depression on March 14 near Diego Garcia, it quickly intensified into a moderate tropical storm by March 15, affecting northern Madagascar and resulting in six deaths and damage to 900 residences.
As Cyclone Jude progressed westward through the Mozambique Channel, it evolved into a full tropical cyclone. This transformation was fueled by sea surface temperatures nearing 30°C, providing the requisite heat and moisture. The cyclone made landfall in Mozambique with sustained winds of 120 km/h and gusts reaching up to 193 km/h, akin to a Category 1 hurricane.
The coastal regions of Mozambique, including Memba, Monapo, Mossuril, Mozambique Island, and Nacala, experienced more than 200 mm of rain within a single day, leading to significant flooding. This situation resulted in the cancellation of flights and left approximately 40,000 individuals without electricity.
Although Cyclone Jude has weakened, forecasts indicate a potential return to strength as it shifts back east over the Mozambique Channel towards southern Madagascar later this week. Some models predict that Jude may regain tropical cyclone status upon reaching Madagascar’s coastline by Friday night, raising concerns for additional destruction.
South Africa also faced severe weather, with KwaZulu-Natal province under a Level 6 alert for heavy rainfall and flooding on March 13. A passing cold front caused rapid air condensation, leading to intense thunderstorms that resulted in around 100 mm of rain within 24 hours.
Cyclone Jude has caused significant disruption in Mozambique, affecting infrastructure and livelihoods with strong winds and heavy rainfall. While it has weakened, the potential for reintensification poses a risk for southern Madagascar. Additionally, South Africa faced severe thunderstorms that compounded weather challenges in the region. Continuous monitoring and preparation for further impact are crucial.
Original Source: www.downtoearth.org.in
