02 May 2024 | 02:53 PM UTC
Indian Ocean: Moderate Tropical Storm Hidaya tracking north-northwestward toward eastern Tanzania as of May 2
Moderate Tropical Storm Hidaya tracking north-northwestward in the Indian Ocean May 2. Close approach to eastern Tanzania May 4-5.
Moderate Tropical Storm Hidaya is tracking north-northwestward in the western Indian Ocean May 2. As of 15:00 EAT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 570 km (354 miles) east-southeast of Dar es Salaam.
Forecast models indicate the system will strengthen into a severe tropical storm as it tracks generally west-northwestward May 2-4, before weakening into a moderate tropical storm as it passes north of Mafia Island during the afternoon May 4. Hidaya is expected to turn to track north-northwestward as it approaches the eastern Tanzania coast late May 4 and will likely dissipate into a zone of disturbed weather as it passes between Unguja Island and the mainland May 5. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; significant changes could occur in the coming days.
As of May 2, the Tanzania Meteorological Authority has issued a warning for strong winds and large waves for regions along the Indian Ocean Coast, including Dar es Salaam, Lindi, Mtwara, Pwani, Tanga, and all island regions. Winds gusting up to 40 kph (25 mph) and waves over 2 meters (6.5 feet) are expected in coastal areas.
Mozambique's National Institute of Meteorology (INAM) has issued an orange bulletin (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for the storm system, warning of rainfall totals of more than 5 cm (2 inches) and winds gusting up to 70 kph (43 mph) over northern and eastern parts of Cabo Delgado Province and rainfall totals of 3-5 cm (1.2-2 inches) and winds gusting up to 70 kph (43 mph) over much of the rest of Cabo Delgado and far northeastern Nampula Province.
Authorities will likely issue new warnings throughout the system's progression in the coming days.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible. The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose a serious health threat.
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast adverse weather conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surges. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
