Northern Mozambique Faces Third Cyclone in Four Months: Cyclone Jude Hits

Northern Mozambique has been struck by Cyclone Jude, the third cyclone in four months, with wind speeds reaching 140 kilometers per hour. The cyclone has weakened into a severe tropical storm but poses a risk of intensification while moving towards Madagascar. Previous cyclones in the region have caused considerable damage and loss of life.

Northern Mozambique has recently experienced its third cyclone within a four-month period, specifically Cyclone Jude, which made landfall on Monday. This cyclone brought significant weather conditions, including winds reaching 140 kilometers per hour and gusting up to 195 kilometers per hour, as reported by the National Institute of Meteorology (INAM). Following landfall, Cyclone Jude weakened into a severe tropical storm, accompanied by thunderstorms. Fortunately, there have been no reported casualties as of Monday afternoon.

The cyclone season in the southwestern Indian Ocean typically spans from November to April, with an average of about twelve storms occurring annually. Previous cyclones have caused considerable devastation in the region. For example, Cyclone Chido, which impacted Mozambique in December, resulted in at least 120 deaths and the destruction of approximately 120,000 homes. Similarly, Cyclone Dikeledi, which struck in mid-January, caused the death of five individuals and damaged nearly 3,500 homes.

According to the regional cyclone center based in La Reunion, it is expected that Cyclone Jude will continue to weaken as it progresses inland, drifting near the Mozambique-Malawi border. However, there is a possibility that the cyclone may regain intensity as it moves southwest towards Madagascar, warranting ongoing vigilance in the region.

In summary, Northern Mozambique is currently facing its third cyclone in four months, Cyclone Jude, which has so far caused no casualties but poses a risk of intensification as it moves towards Madagascar. Historical data from recent cyclones indicate a pattern of significant destruction and loss of life, highlighting the severe impact of these weather events on the region.

Original Source: www.ecr.co.za