- Cyclone Freddy has traveled more than 4,000 miles across the Indian Ocean since early February, expected to be declared the longest-lasting tropical cyclone on record.
- Freddy has caused most destruction bouncing between the island nation of Madagascar, where 11 people have died, and Mozambique, on the African mainland, where 10 have been killed.
- The cyclone is unusual not only because of its longevity and route but also because it has undergone six separate rounds of rapid intensification.
- The authorities in Mozambique say they fear that 1.75 million people could be affected when it returns, and aid agencies have urged people to remain in shelters.
- The indirect impact of Freddy has been felt across southern Africa, where summer rains have dried up as the cyclone sucks moisture from the Indian Ocean.
Freddy Could Become Longest-Lasting Tropical Cyclone
The storm, which has killed 21 people already, has hit several countries in southeastern Africa and is on track to last longer than the record of 31 days.
By Lynsey Chutel
