Cyclone Elvis Claims Lives in Madagascar as Tropical Cyclone Faida Approaches

Madagascar prepares for Cyclone Faida’s landfall while recovering from Cyclone Elvis, which killed five people. Faida has winds of 65 km/h and is expected to strengthen. The increasing frequency of cyclones highlights the region’s vulnerability to climate change. Recent storms have prompted calls for improved forecasting and disaster preparedness across southern Africa.

On February 4, Madagascar is preparing for the anticipated landfall of Tropical Cyclone Faida on its northern coast, while simultaneously dealing with the aftermath of Cyclone Elvis, which left at least five individuals deceased. According to a report by the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), these fatalities occurred due to “lightning events” in Vohibato district. Additionally, two other individuals sustained injuries during this storm’s impact.

Cyclone Elvis originated in the Mozambique Channel on January 28 and made landfall on Madagascar’s southwestern coast the following day. It brought with it severe rainfall and strong winds, recorded at maximum speeds of 84 kilometers per hour (52 miles per hour). The cities of Toliara and Taolagnaro experienced significant rainfall, measuring 196 and 178 millimeters respectively, over a span of five days. Elvis ultimately dissipated over the southern Indian Ocean during the weekend.

Meanwhile, Madagascar is now contending with Cyclone Faida, which developed on January 23 in the southern Indian Ocean. After affecting Mauritius and Réunion Island on February 2, it is projected to make landfall in northern Madagascar on February 4. As per the February 3 ECHO report, Cyclone Faida has maximum sustained winds of 65 km/h (40 mph) and is expected to strengthen, impacting regions including Analamanga, Alaotra Mangoro, Analanjirofo, Atsinanana, and Sofia.

Authorities in Réunion Island, a French overseas territory, have issued warnings urging local residents to prepare emergency supplies and stay vigilant for weather advisories. This comes in the wake of recent cyclones, particularly Cyclone Dikeledi, which caused significant flooding and landslides in northeastern Madagascar, leading to at least 10 fatalities. Notably, this storm inundated a tortoise sanctuary, resulting in the drowning of hundreds of tortoises, though over 10,000 individuals were subsequently rescued.

Experts gathered in Zambia last week to discuss strategies for improving storm forecasting in Southern Africa, as the region faces an increasing frequency of severe weather events exacerbated by climate change. The U.K. Met Office emphasized that ongoing climate change will continue to yield more storms in the area, following the recent devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Chido in December.

In recent weeks, Madagascar has been severely affected by natural disasters, culminating in the impacts of Cyclone Elvis and the looming threat of Cyclone Faida. The increasing frequency and severity of such storms in southern Africa is closely linked to climate change, prompting heightened concerns regarding disaster preparedness and response in the region. This backdrop sets the stage for understanding the challenges faced by Madagascar in managing the consequences of cyclones and coordinating efforts to mitigate damage and enhance resilience against future events.

In summary, Madagascar is currently facing the dual challenges posed by Cyclone Faida’s impending impact and the aftermath of Cyclone Elvis, which has already claimed five lives. Recent cyclones, including Dikeledi and Chido, highlight the urgent need for improved forecasting and preparedness in the region. As climate change continues to intensify storm activity in southern Africa, enhancing disaster response mechanisms is essential to safeguard human lives and protect ecosystems.

Original Source: news.mongabay.com