New Delhi: Cyclone Freddy has so far killed hundreds and displaced thousands as it tore through Mozambique and Malawi since late last week. It is set to move away from land later on Wednesday, which should bring some relief to southern African regions that have been ravaged by its torrential rains and powerful winds.
Cyclone Freddy has killed at least 225 people in Malawi’s southern region, including Blantyre, the country’s financial centre, according to local officials. Another 88,000 people are displaced.
In neighboring Mozambique, officials say at least 20 people have died since the storm struck the port city of Quelimane on Saturday.
With about 1,300 square kilometers (800 sq mi) still under water, more than 45,000 people are still hiding in shelters, according to the European Union’s Copernicus satellite system.
Malawi, which has been battling a cholera outbreak, is now at risk of a re-emergence of the disease.
PM Modi condoles the deaths due to cyclone Freddy in Malawi, Mozambique, Madagascar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives due to Cyclone Freddy in Malawi, Mozambique and Madagascar.
In a tweet, the Prime Minister said, “Anguished by the devastation caused by Cyclone Freddy in Malawi, Mozambique and Madagascar. President @LAZARUSCHAKWERA, President Filipe Nyusi and President @SE_Rajoelina, condolences to the bereaved families and those affected by the cyclone. India Standing with you during this difficult time.”
Deeply saddened by the devastation caused by Cyclone Freddie in Malawi, Mozambique and Madagascar. condolences to the president @LazaruschakweraPresident Philip Nyusi and President @SE_Rajoelina, bereaved families and people affected by the cyclone. India stands with you in this difficult time. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 15, 2023
Why was Cyclone Freddy so powerful?
Scientists say climate change has made Cyclone Freddy’s activity more intense and more frequent, mostly due to industrial countries pumping greenhouse gases into the air.
The recently ended La Nina, which affected weather across the world, also increased cyclonic activity in the region.
Cyclone Freddie has been wreaking havoc in southern Africa since late February.
Freddy first developed near Australia in early February.
The UN weather agency has set up an expert panel to determine whether it has broken the record for longest-lasting cyclone in recorded history, set by 31-day Hurricane John in 1994. Was.