The Tanzania Meteorological Authority has declared that Tropical Cyclone Hidaya has ended within their territory.
According to the Authority, recent observations indicate that the country is no longer experiencing the cyclone, as its strength has significantly diminished for over six hours.
“The trend and patterns of weather systems indicate that in the past six hours, Tropical Cyclone Hidaya has completely lost its strength following its landfall at Mafia Island earlier today,” stated TMA. “The remnants of the rain clouds that accompanied the Tropical Cyclone have been observed to weaken and spread out in various areas of the southern region of our country, particularly in Lindo, Mtwara, Morogoro, and neighboring areas. Therefore, there is no further threat of Tropical Cyclone Hidaya in our country.”
The cyclone caused extensive damage in Tanzania, with numerous houses destroyed on Mafia Island. Ferry services between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar were suspended for safety reasons.
Meanwhile, the Kenyan Meteorological Department had issued warnings to residents living in coastal areas to remain vigilant as Cyclone Hidaya posed a potential threat.
Residents were advised to stay informed by regularly checking the latest weather forecasts and updates from the Kenya Meteorological Department.
“Seek guidance from experts in relevant fields to mitigate potential impacts. Stay safe and prepared!” Kenya Met advised.
Heavy rainfall is expected offshore along the Kenyan coast from Sunday, May 5, intensifying on Monday, May 6, to Tuesday, May 7, 2024.
Already, the effects of the cyclone are being felt offshore, with strong winds exceeding 40 knots (20.6 m/s) and large waves surpassing two meters.
