09/01/2025
Dikeledi o ke lemetseng ๐๐๐ญ๐ญ
๐ญ๐๐๐๐ญ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐.
Tropical Cyclone "Dikeledi" Threatens Southern Africa, With Potential Impact on Botswana
The SADC Climate Services Centre has issued a warning for Botswana and the broader Southern Africa region as Tropical Depression 05 of 2024/25, now named Tropical Cyclone "Dikeledi," develops in the Southwestern Indian Ocean. The system, which is expected to intensify as it moves over the warm waters of the Mozambique Channel, is likely to bring heavy rainfall to Botswana and several other countries in the region.
As of 8 January 2025, "Dikeledi" has maximum average wind speeds of 55 km/h (30 knots) and a minimum sea-level pressure near 1000 mb. The cyclone is set to directly impact northern Madagascar, the Comoros, and southern Mozambique. However, Botswana, particularly in the eastern and central regions, is also at risk of significant rainfall from this system and other weather disturbances that are expected to affect the broader Southern Africa region.
In Botswana, this means the potential for widespread rainfall, which may lead to flooding, especially in low-lying areas. The southern regions, including parts of Gaborone and surrounding areas, could experience rain, impacting daily activities and infrastructure. SADC's warning also covers areas in Zimbabwe, South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, and other southern countries, where heavy rainfall could lead to similar challenges.
SADC has urged National Meteorological and Hydrological Services in member states to closely monitor this system and collaborate with disaster management agencies to ensure preparedness and minimize damage. Local warnings and alerts should be followed to protect lives and property.