The National Institute of Meteorology (INAM) has revealed that Cyclone Freddy, which hit Madagascar yesterday (21), with strong winds approaching 200 km/h and rainfall of more than 300 millimetres in 24 hours, was once an event with the force equivalent to that of a hurricane, but has been losing strength.
According to INAM, through the voice of meteorologist Julio Langa, after a long journey through the southern Indian Ocean, intense tropical cyclone Freddy reached Madagascar and is estimated to enter the Mozambique channel on Thursday, 23 February.
According to Tuesday’s detailed explanation of the phenomenon’s trajectory, meteorological authorities advanced that its first target was Mauritius, which did not record considerable damage or fatalities, even taking into account its intensity.
“The situation was different in Madagascar, with the capital, Antananarivo, being hit by rain and strong gusts of wind in 24 hours, well above normal,” Langa added.
In terms of Mozambique, the meteorologist stressed that, on its passage through the Mozambique Channel, cyclone Freddy is forecast to cause heavy rains, strong winds and sea agitation, which could cause coastal flooding in the most vulnerable areas of Sofala, Zambézia and Inhambane provinces.
“On 22 February, the cyclone will move out of the interior of the island of Madagascar into the Mozambique Channel, where it will strengthen and influence the weather with stormy winds and heavy rains. We are talking about rainfall of over 100 millimetres in 24 hours and winds with gusts above 150 km/h, with a greater risk of flooding,” explained the INAM meteorologist.
The latest forecasts from the Institute indicate that this system could last until at least Sunday 26 February, and by then it will already be affecting other countries, namely South Africa, Essuatini, Botswana and Zimbabwe.
Since its arrival in Madagascar, Cyclone Freddy has already caused the death of at least four people, flooded more than 3,000 homes and forced the displacement of about 11,000 people.
