Tropical Storm Dikeledi, which has been gaining strength over the past few days, is now expected to intensify further within the next 24 hours, potentially reaching tropical cyclone status as it moves towards the Mozambique coast. According to Météo-France, the storm passed around 100 kilometers south of Mayotte at 9 a.m. Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), but it is now continuing on a west-south-west trajectory away from the island. While Dikeledi moves further into the Mozambique Channel, meteorologists are closely monitoring its development, anticipating that it will continue to strengthen before making landfall along the Mozambican coastline.
The forecast suggests that the Nampula region of Mozambique will begin to feel the effects of the storm as Dikeledi edges closer. Residents in the area can expect degraded weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and dangerous sea conditions. There is also a possibility of marine submersion along coastal areas, as the storm’s proximity to land could trigger severe conditions. Although a direct landfall is not yet certain, authorities have been urged to prepare for the worst-case scenario as the storm’s intensity continues to grow.
Meteorologists predict that Dikeledi will continue to intensify over the coming days, potentially reaching the status of an intense tropical cyclone. This could pose a threat to the southern coast of Madagascar by Wednesday or Thursday, as the storm’s trajectory is expected to curve towards the south-south-east. While Dikeledi’s exact path remains uncertain, the potential for severe weather along both the Mozambican and Malagasy coasts has prompted heightened vigilance and preparedness measures in both countries.
By 3 p.m. local time, Météo Madagascar reported that the storm was located approximately 283 kilometers north of Besalampy, with average winds of 90 km/h and gusts reaching up to 125 km/h near its center. The storm was moving at a speed of 34 km/h towards the west-south-west, bringing with it the risk of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, especially across the north-western regions of Madagascar. Although cyclone alerts have been lifted, the storm’s impact continues to affect weather conditions across the island, particularly along the northern and central western coasts.
In response to the worsening conditions, Météo Madagascar has issued a heavy rain watch for several regions, advising residents to stay alert for flash floods and other potential hazards. The agency has also advised maritime users, particularly those between Cap d’Ambre and Besalampy, not to venture out to sea until the storm has fully passed. This warning will extend to the areas between Besalampy and Morombe starting Monday morning, as the storm’s influence is expected to grow stronger in the coming days.
As Tropical Storm Dikeledi moves towards intensifying into a cyclone, both Mozambique and Madagascar remain on high alert. Local authorities are working in coordination with meteorological services to issue warnings and ensure that affected populations are adequately prepared for the severe weather that lies ahead. With Dikeledi’s unpredictable nature, it is crucial for all coastal residents and maritime users in the region to remain vigilant and heed safety advisories in the days to come.
