Tropical Cyclone Faida-2025: Overview and Impact
Introduction
Tropical Cyclone Faida-2025, also designated as TC 11S, was a significant weather event in the South Indian Ocean that affected Madagascar and neighboring regions. This provides an overview of its development, trajectory, and impacts based on available data and reports.
Formation and Development
Faida formed on January 28, 2025, over the southern Indian Ocean. Initially, it was classified as a tropical disturbance with sustained winds of 35 knots (40 mph). Over the next few days, it intensified into a moderate tropical storm, reaching peak winds of 50 knots (58 mph) by February 3, 2025.
Key Characteristics
- Peak Intensity: 50 knots (58 mph) on February 3, 2025.
- Minimum Pressure: 997 hPa at peak intensity.
- Trajectory: West-northwestward, making landfall in northeastern Madagascar on February 4, 2025, and exiting into the Mozambique Channel before dissipating over central Mozambique by February 5, 2025.
Impact on Madagascar
Faida caused significant disruptions in Madagascar, particularly in the regions of Toamasina, Atsinanana, and Analanjirofo. The cyclone brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding, leading to:
- Population Displacement: Over 365 people were evacuated, with 313 in Toamasina and 52 in Fénérive Est.
- Infrastructure Damage: 93 houses were reported damaged across the affected regions.
- School Closures: Local authorities closed several schools in the Atsinanana region as a precautionary measure.
Environmental and Humanitarian Impact
Faida's passage resulted in:
- Heavy Rainfall: Up to 3 inches of rain in some areas, causing localized flooding.
- Storm Surge: A maximum surge height of 0.5 meters was recorded in Voloina, Madagascar.
- Vulnerability: Madagascar's high vulnerability to tropical cyclones exacerbated the humanitarian impact, particularly in coastal regions.
Forecast and Dissipation
Faida weakened rapidly after landfall due to Madagascar's rugged terrain, dropping to 30 knots (35 mph) by February 5, 2025. It briefly regained some intensity over the Mozambique Channel before dissipating inland over central Mozambique.
Conclusion
Tropical Cyclone Faida-2025 highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by tropical cyclones in the South Indian Ocean, particularly for vulnerable regions like Madagascar. The event underscored the importance of early warning systems and disaster preparedness to mitigate the impacts of such natural disasters.