The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) declared Tropical Cyclone Freddy the longest-lasting cyclone on record, lasting a staggering 36 days.
This surpasses the previous record held by Hurricane John, which persisted for nearly 30 days in the northern Pacific Ocean three decades ago.
Freddy’s destructive path carved a record across the Southern Indian Ocean, traveling an impressive 12,785 kilometers (7,945 miles) before dissipating.
While Hurricane John holds the record for total distance traveled at over 13,000 kilometers, Freddy’s longevity is unprecedented.
The storm’s impact was far from negligible. After making landfall in eastern Africa in two separate phases, Freddy caused widespread devastation.
The WMO reported over 1,200 people dead or missing in Malawi alone, with Mozambique suffering casualties exceeding 180.
“Freddy’s behavior was atypical,” explained Clare Nullis, a WMO spokesperson.
“Unlike most cyclones with a single landfall, Freddy made multiple landfalls across vulnerable countries like Mozambique and Madagascar, with significant impacts also felt in Malawi and other southern African nations.”
