Cyclone season in the South-West Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclones form over the warm South-West Indian Ocean during the southern summer. The official season runs from 15 November to 30 April, and the islands and the Mozambique coast are most exposed.
Conditions right now
Peak months and past storms
Most intense cyclones occur from January to March. Madagascar’s east coast faces the open ocean and is struck most often, while storms that enter the Mozambique Channel can hit Mozambique and push floods inland into Malawi and Zimbabwe. Idai in 2019 and Freddy in 2023, one of the longest-lived cyclones on record, showed how far inland the damage can reach.
Warnings and naming
The regional specialised meteorological centre in La Réunion tracks every system and issues advisories for the basin. Storms are named from a list agreed by the countries of the region once they reach moderate tropical storm strength, with the Mauritius and Madagascar meteorological services assigning the names. Each country then issues its own warnings, and those are the ones to act on.
Frequently asked questions
When is cyclone season in Madagascar and Mozambique?
Officially from 15 November to 30 April, with the greatest risk from January to March.
What should I do before a cyclone?
Secure roofs and loose objects, clear drains, prepare water, food, a torch, a radio and medicines, and know where your nearest shelter is. Evacuate early if told to.
Is it safe when the wind suddenly stops?
No. You may be in the eye of the cyclone, and the wind will return from the other direction. Stay sheltered until officials give the all-clear.