Tanzania Braces for Tropical Cyclone Hidaya
As Tanzania grapples with the aftermath of devastating floods claiming at least 155 lives since March, the country now faces the looming threat of Tropical Cyclone Hidaya, potentially the strongest cyclone in modern records for the region.
Current Situation: As of 8 a.m. EDT Friday (12 UTC), Tropical Cyclone Hidaya, with sustained winds of 85 mph, equivalent to a Category 1 hurricane, was positioned approximately 210 miles east-southeast of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s capital. The cyclone is forecasted to move westward at 7 mph, with an expected landfall just south of Dar es Salaam on Saturday night local time.
Impact and Concerns: Hidaya is anticipated to bring torrential rains exceeding 10 inches along its path, further aggravating the already dire situation caused by recent heavy rains and flooding. With exceptionally warm sea surface temperatures fueling the cyclone, there are concerns about its potential impact, especially in regions already reeling from the devastating floods.
Preventive Measures: While Hidaya is expected to weaken due to dry air, moderate wind shear, and relatively low deep ocean heat content along its path, authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions. Despite potential weakening, Hidaya could still pose significant risks, particularly with regards to flooding and infrastructure damage.
Previous Disaster: The April portion of the annual spring rainy season has been particularly devastating, with heavy rains triggering floods across Kenya, Tanzania, and Somalia. Kenya has borne the brunt of the disaster, with 181 dead and 91 missing, exacerbated by poor urban planning and land management practices.
Conclusion: As Tanzania braces for the impact of Tropical Cyclone Hidaya, the focus remains on minimizing casualties and mitigating damage. Effective coordination between authorities and communities is crucial in ensuring swift and efficient response measures to protect lives and property in the face of this natural disaster.
