Zimbabwe Spared as Severe Tropical Storm Dikeledi Makes Landfall in Madagascar
The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has confirmed that Zimbabwe will remain unaffected by Severe Tropical Storm Dikeledi, which is currently located approximately 3,000 kilometers away from the contry. The storm, which has been classified as a tropical cyclone due to its maximum sustained winds of up to 179 km/h, is expected to make landfall north of vohemar town in Antsiranana province, northeastern Madagascar, on January 11, 2025, during the mid-afternoon (UTC).in a weather advisory issued at 6 PM on Friday, January 10, the MSD emphasized that Dikeledi poses no direct threat to Zimbabwe. Though, the department has forecast heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in Matabeleland North, Mashonaland West, and Manicaland provinces, which are unrelated to the tropical storm.
Dikeledi’s Trajectory and Impact
Dikeledi, the fourth system of the 2024-2025 cyclone season, has reached the Severe Tropical Storm stage, weaker than a tropical cyclone. It is indeed expected to weaken further after crossing Madagascar before re-emerging in the Mozambique Channel. “Considering the current trajectory, the impacts on Mozambique – if any – will only be assessed after it enters the mozambique Channel, specifically after Sunday, January 12, 2025,” the advisory stated.
The MSD has assured the public that it will continue to monitor the storm’s strength and path, providing regular updates. “the Meteorological Services Department will continue to monitor and keep the nation informed about its strength and path,” the advisory added.
Zimbabwe’s Cyclone Season
Zimbabwe’s cyclone season typically begins in December but started early this year, in October 2024. To date, there have been two Tropical Cyclones – Ancha and Bheki – which did not reach Mozambique or Zimbabwe, and one, Chido, that reached Mozambique but not Zimbabwe.
While Zimbabwe remains unaffected by Dikeledi, the MSD has highlighted the importance of vigilance during the tropical cyclone season, as most cyclones affecting the country originate in the Southwest Indian Ocean.
Precautionary Measures
Citizens in provinces experiencing heavy rains and thunderstorms are advised to take necessary precautions to avoid risks such as flooding and lightning strikes.The department has urged the public to rely on official communication channels for accurate information and continuous updates regarding Dikeledi and other weather developments.
Key Information at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Storm Name | Severe Tropical Storm Dikeledi |
| Current Location | Approximately 3,000 km from Zimbabwe |
| Landfall | North of Vohemar town, Antsiranana province, Madagascar (January 11, 2025) |
| Maximum Winds | Up to 179 km/h |
| impact on zimbabwe | No direct threat |
| Affected Provinces | Matabeleland North, Mashonaland West, Manicaland (unrelated to Dikeledi) |
| Advisory issued | January 10, 2025, at 6 PM |
As the cyclone season progresses, the MSD remains committed to keeping the nation informed and prepared. stay tuned to official updates and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this period of heightened weather activity.
Understanding Tropical Storm Dikeledi and Its Impact on Zimbabwe: An Expert Interview
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As Severe Tropical Storm Dikeledi makes landfall in Madagascar, concerns about its potential impact on neighboring regions, including Zimbabwe, have been raised. To shed light on the storm’s trajectory, its implications, and Zimbabwe’s preparedness, we sat down with dr. Tariro Moyo, a renowned meteorologist and climate expert, for an in-depth discussion. dr.Moyo provides insights into the storm’s progress, its projected path, and the broader context of Zimbabwe’s cyclone season.
Dikeledi’s Trajectory and Current status
Senior Editor: Dr. Moyo, thank you for joining us.Can you start by explaining the current status of Severe Tropical Storm Dikeledi and its projected trajectory?
Dr. Tariro Moyo: Certainly. Dikeledi is currently classified as a Severe Tropical Storm, with maximum sustained winds of up to 179 km/h. It is indeed located approximately 3,000 kilometers away from Zimbabwe and is expected to make landfall north of Vohemar town in Madagascar’s Antsiranana province on January 11, 2025. After crossing Madagascar, the storm is projected to weaken and re-emerge in the Mozambique Channel. However, Zimbabwe remains unaffected by Dikeledi directly.
Impact on Zimbabwe and Regional Weather Patterns
Senior Editor: The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has confirmed that Zimbabwe is not under direct threat. However,there are reports of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in certain provinces. Are these weather events related to Dikeledi?
Dr. Tariro Moyo: No, the heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in Matabeleland North, Mashonaland West, and Manicaland provinces are unrelated to Dikeledi. These are localized weather patterns typical of Zimbabwe’s rainy season. While Dikeledi is a critically important weather system, its influence is confined to Madagascar and potentially Mozambique after it re-emerges in the Mozambique Channel.
Zimbabwe’s Cyclone Season and Preparedness
Senior Editor: Zimbabwe’s cyclone season started early this year, in October 2024. Can you elaborate on how this season has unfolded so far and what it means for the country?
Dr. Tariro Moyo: This year’s cyclone season began earlier than usual, with three systems already recorded: Tropical Cyclones Ancha, Bheki, and Chido. Fortunately, none of these cyclones directly impacted Zimbabwe, even though Chido reached Mozambique.The early onset of the season underscores the importance of vigilance, as most cyclones affecting Zimbabwe originate in the Southwest Indian Ocean. The MSD has been proactive in monitoring these systems and issuing timely advisories to keep the public informed.
Precautionary Measures and Public Awareness
senior editor: What precautions should citizens in affected provinces take, and how can thay stay updated on weather developments?
Dr. Tariro Moyo: Residents in provinces experiencing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms should take precautions such as avoiding flooded areas, securing loose objects, and staying indoors during lightning storms. It’s crucial to rely on official communication channels, like the MSD, for accurate and timely updates. Misinformation can lead to unnecessary panic, so I urge everyone to follow trusted sources for weather-related facts.
Looking ahead: Monitoring Dikeledi and Future Cyclones
Senior Editor: what can we expect in the coming weeks as the cyclone season progresses, and how is the MSD preparing for potential developments?
Dr. Tariro Moyo: The MSD is committed to continuous monitoring of Dikeledi and other weather systems. While Dikeledi is not a threat to Zimbabwe, the department will assess its impact on Mozambique after it enters the mozambique Channel. As the season progresses, we can expect more weather systems to develop, and the MSD will provide regular updates to ensure the nation remains prepared. Public awareness and adherence to safety guidelines are key to minimizing risks during this period.
