Tropical Cyclone Elvis (2025): Overview and Impact
Introduction
Tropical Cyclone Elvis, designated as 12S, formed on 28 January 2025 over the Mozambique Channel and quickly developed into a moderate tropical storm. It affected regions in the southwestern Indian Ocean, particularly southern Madagascar, before transitioning into an extratropical system. This article provides an overview of its development, trajectory, and impacts.
Development and Trajectory
Elvis originated from a tropical disturbance that consolidated over warm waters in the Mozambique Channel. By 29 January, it had intensified into a tropical storm with sustained winds of 50 knots (93 km/h) and gusts up to 60 knots (111 km/h). The cyclone moved southeastward, influenced by a deep-layer subtropical ridge to its east, and passed near the southwestern coast of Madagascar on 30 January.
Key Milestones:
- 28 January: Formed as a tropical depression with winds of 25 knots (46 km/h).
- 29 January: Strengthened to a tropical storm, reaching peak winds of 50 knots (93 km/h).
- 30 January: Moved southward, maintaining tropical storm intensity with winds of 40-45 knots (74-83 km/h).
- 31 January: Began extratropical transition, weakening to 40 knots (74 km/h) before dissipating over the South Indian Ocean.
Impacts
Madagascar
Elvis brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to southern Madagascar, particularly in the Toliara Province. Local accumulations exceeded 500 millimeters (20 inches) in 24 hours, causing severe flooding in areas like Morombe District and Betioky-Atsimo. Hundreds of homes were damaged or destroyed, and essential services such as water and electricity were disrupted.
Humanitarian Concerns
The cyclone exacerbated existing vulnerabilities in Madagascar, a region still recovering from previous storms like Cyclone Batsirai (2022). The World Food Programme (WFP) and other agencies were on standby to provide emergency assistance, including food and logistics support.
Meteorological Analysis
Elvis struggled against moderate to strong easterly wind shear throughout its lifecycle, which limited its intensification. However, warm sea surface temperatures and favorable outflow aloft supported its development. By 31 January, increasing shear and interaction with a mid-latitude trough triggered its transition into an extratropical system.
Conclusion
Tropical Cyclone Elvis (2025) highlighted the recurring challenges faced by Madagascar and surrounding regions during the cyclone season. While its impacts were moderate compared to previous storms, it underscored the need for continued preparedness and resilience-building efforts in vulnerable communities.