Tanzania has breathed a sigh of relief as Tropical Cyclone Hidaya, which made landfall on Saturday, has significantly weakened and is no longer considered a threat to the country. The Tanzania Meteorological Authority announced on Sunday that the cyclone had lost its strength entirely after hitting Mafia Island in the Indian Ocean.

The cyclone, named Hidaya, had caused concern as it approached Tanzania and neighbouring Kenya, both already grappling with severe flooding that has claimed hundreds of lives across East Africa in recent weeks. While the storm brought heavy rains and winds as it approached, particularly affecting coastal areas, no casualties or significant damage were reported.

Despite the precautions taken, including the closure of shops, suspension of marine transport, and evacuation of vulnerable areas, Tanzania appears to have been spared the worst of the cyclone's impact. However, the region remains on alert as heavy rains persist, exacerbating the flooding situation that has already claimed numerous lives.

In Tanzania alone, at least 155 people lost their lives due to floods and landslides triggered by unusually heavy rainfall associated with the El Nino weather pattern. Meanwhile, in neighbouring Kenya, the death toll from flood-related incidents has risen to 210, underscoring the severity of the ongoing crisis in the region.