Powerful Cyclone Freddy to Hit Madagascar This Week; Flooding, Heavy Rain Possible

The last week of February would be troublesome for communities in Madagascar as powerful Cyclone Freddy is expected to unload heavy rain and strong winds. 

Weather forecasts monitored the developments of powerful Cyclone Freddy, moving towards Madagascar this week.

Formidable Cyclone Freddy would cause life-threatening situations. Communities in the affected areas should stay updated with the weather conditions.

Powerful Cyclone Freddy on track in Madagascar

According to AccuWeather's latest forecast (Feb. 21, 2023), weather agencies said that Cyclone Freddy was located over the north-northwest of Port Louis, Martius.

The intensity of Cyclone Freddy could reach a Category 3 Hurricane. AccuWeather noted that Cyclone Freddy managed to attain sustained winds of 127 mph (205 km/h) and 177 mph (about 285 km/h) gusts.

Weather agencies have noted that Cyclone Freddy's track was unusual, especially on its way to the Eastern Indian Ocean.

Early preparations are crucial for affected communities in Madagascar, especially since Freddy would make a dangerous impact.

On the other hand, Reuters reported that Cyclone Freddy would impact Mauritius and Madagascar.

(Photo : by ELIE SERGIO/AFP via Getty Images)
Sambava on January 21, 2023. Madagascar Braces for Life-Threatening, Powerful Cyclone Freddy This Week

Reuters added that Cyclone Freddy is expected to unload flooding rainfall and possible landslides. Mauritius has canceled stock exchange and flight schedules due to a storm threat.

The report explained that Cyclone Freddy maintained 120 km per hour packing winds that could blow away power lines and trees.

Meanwhile, AccuWeather added Macarene Island would also experience the brunt of Cyclone Freddy on Monday as the storm tracks toward central and Southeastern Madagascar.

Weather forecasts warned of the possible widespread impact of Freddy, making it the strongest cyclone in Madagascar.

Furthermore, The Weather Channel explained that the powerful Cyclone Freddy would strike Mozambique in the late week.

There is also a chance that Cyclone Freddy will hit parts of Southern Africa this week. As a result, communities should keep updated with Freddy's developments.

The Weather Channel emphasized that Cyclone Freddy would result in rapid flooding events, landslides and torrential rain.

Did you know? More Facts about Madagascar's weather

Madagascar is home to rare and unique wildlife. Conservationists and scientists have advocated urgently protecting rare and endangered species in the region.

However, the country has experienced severe events and devastating cyclones.

According to Relief Web's website, Cyclone Eline hit the country in February 2000, while Cyclone Gloria unleashed in March 2000. The two catastrophic cyclones unloaded heavy rain and flooding, affecting about 737,00 people.

Also Read: Powerful Cyclone Freddy Continues to Track Toward Madagascar, Forecast Warns 

Relief Web added that about 184,000 people required urgent relief efforts after the cyclones.

Widespread flooding was also recorded due to cyclones. In addition, parts of Madagascar's East and Central areas experienced the storm system's brunt.

Staying safe when Cyclone Freddy makes landfall

Weather reports revealed that Cyclone Freddy was not an ordinary cyclone. There is a potential to cause widespread damage to residents and communities.

As a result, communities near the affected areas should keep updated with the weather and evacuation efforts.

It is crucial to evacuate when floodwater rapidly rises.

Related Article: Madagascar Unique Plants, Animals Suffer from Habitat Loss and Climate Change; Researchers Discovered that 23 Million Years of Evolution Needed To Recover

For more similar, don't forget to follow Nature World News.