Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 11s (Freddy), located approximately 136 nm west-northwest of St Denis, is tracking west-southwestward at 19 knots.

Newsbytes:

Philippines - Disaster authorities in the Philippines report over 30,000 people have been displaced and 2 people have died after heavy rain brought by a low-pressure area (LPA) caused flooding and landslides across 8 regions. In a 24-hour period to `14 February, 242 mm of rain fell in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte. On 18 February, 241 mm of rain fell in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

South Africa - More flooding has affected parts of South Africa in recent days. At least 2 people have died and 5 are still missing. Authorities warn that dam levels are extremely high and floodgates have been opened in several locations. Severe flooding struck in the town of Coffee Bay and surrounding areas on 18 February 2023. Homes, schools and infrastructure were damaged. Six people were swept away by floodwater. Two bodies have since been recovered and four remain missing. Flooding struck in the town of Komani from 18 to 19 February, one person, who had been trapped in the floods with two others, was swept away on the evening of 18 February. Flooding was reported in the city of Ladysmith in the KwaZulu-Natal province after the Klipriver broke its banks on 17 February. Several roads were closed, and homes and commercial buildings were flooded.

Romania - Extensive flooding in northern Romania on Saturday night left roads damaged and disrupted rail services. The worst affected counties were Bistrita and Maramures. Rivers burst their banks, leaving homes and farmland flooded and triggering landslides. In Bistrita, an avalanche blocked the Rodna-Valea Vinului road, leaving motorists with a 30km detour.