“The presence of ‘Hidaya’ near our country’s coast is expected to dominate and affect the weather systems of the country, including causing periods of heavy rain and strong winds in some regions of the Mtwara, Lindi, and Pwani (including the Mafia Islands),” the TMA said in a statement....CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
“Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Morogoro, Ugunja, and Pemba regions and neighbouring areas, especially on May 3, 2024, for the southern coastal areas (Lindi and Mtwara) and spreading to other coastal areas from May 4 to 6, 2024.”
Satellite tracking provided by Zoom Earth indicates that Cyclone Hidaya is anticipated to reach land between Saturday and Sunday, with wind speeds forecast to reach up to 167 km/h upon impact. Additionally, a storm surge of 7.9 meters (2.3 feet) is predicted, posing a significant risk to coastal communities.
Will Cyclone Hidaya Actually Hit Kenya?
Despite the cyclone’s trajectory suggesting that Tanzania could bear the brunt of its force, there are concerns that the tropical storm could hit some parts of Kenya, particularly the southeast region.
An analysis of the cyclone’s trajectory indicates that regions closest to the Kenya-Tanzania border, particularly the counties of Kwale, Taita Taveta, and Kajiado, are most vulnerable.
Among the towns expected to be affected are Wundanyi, Msambweni, and Shimoni, along with Lunga Lunga, Ukunda, Mwatate, and Duruma.
Additionally, Taveta, Mariakani, Livundani, Marongo, Vanga, Maungu, and Rusanga are some of the locations likely to experience the cyclone’s effects.
The threat extends beyond human settlements to encompass vital wildlife habitats, including Tsavo West National Park, Diani Beach, Shimba Hills National Park, Lamu Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chyulu Hills National Park.
These conservation areas face the risk of significant disruption and damage, posing challenges to the preservation of biodiversity in the region.
While some areas, such as Mombasa and Voi, lie just outside the predicted path of Cyclone Hidaya, they are not exempt from its impact.
Residents in these regions can anticipate heavy rains and strong winds as the cyclone’s influence extends beyond its immediate trajectory, and the storm could add a layer of pain to Kenyans already having to deal with the ongoing heavy rainfall and flooding across the country..CONTINUE READING>>
