Cyclone Dudzai rapidly intensified over the south central Indian Ocean, raising marine hazards and forecast uncertainty. The system reached Category 4 equivalent strength on January 12 with winds near 230 km/h, becoming 2026’s first major cyclone. Forecasters cited rapid intensification over 26.5°C seas, low wind shear, and deep moisture. Waves exceeded 8 meters and radiated hundreds of kilometers, prompting ship reroutes while GDACS flagged low humanitarian impact but dangerous marine conditions. Forming January 10 after Cyclone Grant, Dudzai moved slowly near 28°C waters about 800 km southeast of Chagos and 1,200 km from Diego Garcia. Updated guidance shifted the track southwest, easing pressure on Diego Garcia as Rodrigues and Mauritius avoided direct impacts.
