Mauritius:Flash Update: Tropical Cyclone Bansi expected to pass north-east of island in next few days (as of 12 Jan 2015)

The newly formed Tropical Cyclone Bansi is forecast to pass about 200 km north-east of Mauritius around 15 January, possibly as a powerful Category 4 Tropical Cyclone with associated sustained wind speeds of 209-251 km/h. While not predicted to make landfall, heavy rains and strong winds can be expected to start impacting Mauritius imminently. The French territory of Réunion Island has also already issued an alert.

Across Southern Africa, more than 100,000 people have been affected by floods and/or storms since the start of the rainfall season in October 2014, including Madagascar (1,018 people affected), Malawi (44,850), Mozambique (48,260) and Zimbabwe (1,500). The situation is expected to worsen as significant rains are expected to continue for the next week over virtually the whole region, especially over the countries already affected. Assessments are ongoing in a number of areas, which should soon provide more information on support required. However, to date no request for international assistance has been issued.

Furthermore, another low pressure system has formed in the Mozambique Channel, which may strengthen over the next few days and move eastward towards Madagascar. The situation warrants close monitoring.