Tropical Cyclone Jade Rams Madagascar

Tropical Cyclone Jade has swept ashore over northeastern Madagascar. Thestorm landed from the Indian Ocean early on Monday morning over the MasoalaPeninsula south of Antalaha. At the time, Jade packed highest sustained windsof near 75 mph, or that of a minimal hurricane. Highest rainfall near thestorm's direct path was likely 10 to 15 inches.Following landfall, Jade weakened steadily as it made its way towards thesouthwest. Movement towards the south and southwest is forecast to persistthrough at least Wednesday. Such a path would favor continued excessive rainnear Jade's center over the eastern side of Madagascar.

Any return to sea east of Madagascar within the next two to three days couldbring about a redevelopment of Jade with renewed serious impact to the easternside of the island.