Tropical Cyclone Chanda

[Somerset Squall]

Invest 99S has become TC 05S, located in the Mozambique Channel. Intensity is 35kts. 05S has a well defined LLC with slightly displaced convection due to moderate shear. However, waters are very warm in the Channel and outflow for 05S is good. These factors suggest some intensification. However, with strong ridging to the north driving 05S southeastwards, it won't be long before the cyclone makes landfall on the west coast of Madagascar. For this reason, 05S is only epxected to peak at 45kts.

[knocker]

[Somerset Squall]

The system was given the name Chanda this afternoon. Intensity has remained at 35kts. Chanda is currently making landfall on the west coast of Madagascar. Chanda's demise will be quite swift as the terrain of central Madagascar is rugged and mountainous.