NAIROBI, Kenya – Cyclone Hidaya weakened significantly as it neared the coastline of Tanzania, according to the country’s meteorology department. The cyclone is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to the region through Sunday, prompting officials to urge residents to exercise caution. While specific information on the updated maximum wind speeds of the cyclone was not provided by the meteorology department, concerns about potential hazards remain high.
As heavy rains and strong winds battered Tanzania in the wake of Cyclone Hidaya, a major blackout swept across much of the country. Ferry services between Dar es Salaam, the commercial hub of Tanzania, and Zanzibar were temporarily suspended as the cyclone made its approach, bringing with it maximum winds of 120 kph (33 mph) and powerful gusts. Reports of trees being uprooted due to the strong winds on Mafia island were circulated by local media by Saturday afternoon.
With the intensity of the cyclone on the rise, authorities have issued warnings for residents to stay alert. The weather service reported higher-than-usual amounts of rainfall in the coastal areas overnight, prompting the Tanzania Red Cross Society to launch preparedness campaigns along the coast. In recent weeks, heavy rains and flooding in Tanzania and other parts of East Africa have resulted in the loss of 155 lives, with over 200,000 individuals being impacted by the natural disasters.
The situation remains precarious as Cyclone Hidaya continues its path, creating concern for the safety and well-being of those living in the affected areas. Efforts to mitigate the impact of the cyclone are underway, with organizations like the Tanzania Red Cross Society working diligently to provide support and resources to communities at risk. The challenges posed by the cyclone serve as a reminder of the vulnerability of coastal regions to extreme weather events, highlighting the importance of preparedness and response measures in the face of natural disasters.