Over the weekend, Cyclone Hidaya slammed into Tanzania, resulting in three fatalities and the rescue of over 100 individuals amid its weakened state upon landfall.
Although the cyclone had slowed upon nearing Tanzania’s coastline, it brought with it torrential rains and fierce winds that battered the nation’s southern areas throughout Saturday.
Reports indicate that more than 20 sailors from Tanzania and Zanzibar were among those saved, their vessels having drifted into Kenyan waters. Tragically, one sailor lost his life due to sea turbulence.
Among the rescued were 80 individuals from Kilwa Island in Tanzania.
The cyclone caused a major power outage across much of Tanzania on Saturday. Ferry services between Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s commercial capital, and Zanzibar were halted for safety concerns.
Social media posts revealed extensive damage, with images depicting demolished homes and fallen trees.
Neighboring Kenya remains on high alert in the wake of this calamity.