Impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido on Mozambique: Urgent Response Needed

Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique, on December 15, 2023, inflicting severe damage with winds of 200 km/h and heavy rainfall. Initial estimates indicate that 2.5 million people may be affected, especially in Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. The Mozambique Red Cross is poised to respond to the crisis, pending further assessments.

Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique in the early hours of December 15, making landfall in the southern region of Cabo Delgado Province, close to the border with Nampula Province and near Pemba City. Classified as a very intense category 4 cyclone, Chido unleashed winds reaching speeds of 200 km/h, with gusts surpassing 250 km/h. The damaging effects of the cyclone began with severe winds and torrential rains around 3 a.m. local time. The National Meteorological Institute (INAM) predicted excessive rainfall, estimating up to 250 mm within 24 hours, and wind gusts potentially hitting 260 km/h in several districts across Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces.

The impact of TC Chido is expected to be profound, as initial assessments indicate major damage in the cyclone’s path. Beyond the destructive winds, the heavy rainfall poses a serious risk of flooding and landslides, particularly in coastal regions vulnerable to storm surges. Reports suggest that mobile networks in Pemba have been disrupted, although some areas still have electricity. This preliminary DREF (Disaster Emergency Fund) application aims to facilitate the Red Cross response in the most affected regions, awaiting further assessment and detailed response plans from the Mozambique Red Cross (CVM).

Early estimates suggest that approximately 2.5 million individuals may have been affected by this catastrophic event, with the following areas identified as severely impacted: In Cabo Delgado Province, particularly the districts of Ancuabe, Balama, Chiure, Mecu, Metuge, Meluco, Ibo Island, Quissanga, and Montepuez, approximately 1.5 million residents are at risk. In Nampula Province, districts including Erati, Lalaua, Malema, Mecuburi, Memba, Nacaroa, and the city of Nampula present a potential population exposure of 730,000. Lastly, in Niassa Province, specific districts have an exposed population of about 215,000 individuals.

Cyclone Chido is part of a pattern of increasing cyclone frequency and intensity in southern Africa due to climate change. This cyclone’s impact on Mozambique highlights the region’s vulnerability to severe weather events, exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure and emergency preparedness. The Mozambique Red Cross’s response, through DREF application, demonstrates the necessity for immediate action in disaster management, particularly in response to extreme weather phenomena that threaten the livelihoods and safety of millions in the affected regions. Understanding the geography, population density, and climate factors that contribute to the pressures faced in this context is crucial for effective disaster relief and recovery efforts.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has had a devastating impact on Mozambique, with significant damage anticipated due to its intense winds and heavy rainfall. The affected provinces, particularly Cabo Delgado and Nampula, are facing significant challenges to recovery, with millions at risk. The Mozambique Red Cross is prepared to respond, contingent on further assessments and detailed response plans. This event underscores the urgent need for effective disaster preparedness strategies as climate change intensifies the frequency of such catastrophic occurrences.

Original Source: reliefweb.int