Mozambique Faces Threat from Cyclone Dikeledi: Flash Update as of January 13, 2025

Tropical Storm Dikeledi has re-intensified into a cyclone affecting Mozambique, with Nampula province expected to face significant rainfall and winds. Approximately 255,310 individuals are projected to be impacted, particularly in coastal areas. The INGD has initiated disaster preparedness actions to assist at-risk populations as humanitarian partners stand ready to provide support.

Mozambique is currently grappling with the re-intensification of Tropical Storm Dikeledi into a tropical cyclone, primarily affecting Nampula province. As Dikeledi moves inland, it is anticipated to weaken but may regain strength upon re-entering the Mozambique Channel near Angoche by January 14. Forecasts predict heavy rainfall amounts of up to 200 mm per 24 hours and winds reaching 120 km/h, impacting several coastal districts, particularly Mossuril, Angoche, and Mogincual. The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) has indicated that approximately 255,310 individuals may be impacted by this cyclone, with 98,000 residing in high-risk areas.

The INGD has activated preventive measures for disaster management, including advisories to at-risk communities, planned evacuations, and pre-deployment of staff for coordination efforts. Despite being the second cyclone to affect Mozambique in just a month, humanitarian partners stand prepared to offer assistance as needed. The provinces of Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia are currently experiencing severe weather conditions, with Nampula facing the brunt of the storm.

In response to anticipated flooding and damage, at least 491 schools and 62 health facilities are under threat. Weather conditions in the region remain precarious with destructive winds and hazardous sea conditions posing significant threats around Ilha de Moçambique and northern Zambezia. INAM and INGD continue to monitor the situation, urging resilient preparedness efforts in the face of these climatic adversities.

The threat to Mozambique posed by Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi highlights the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather patterns, exacerbated by the cyclone’s dual potential for re-intensification and its timing as the second storm in a short period. This ongoing situation underscores the critical need for effective disaster management strategies and readiness among local populations and authorities. As prior cyclones have shown, Mozambique’s geography makes it particularly susceptible to severe weather, presenting persistent risks for communities, infrastructure, and vital services such as education and healthcare. The engagement of humanitarian partners further illustrates the collaborative efforts required to mitigate the effects of natural disasters in this region.

Cyclone Dikeledi’s re-intensification poses a significant threat to coastal districts in Mozambique, with Nampula province anticipated to face the most severe impacts from strong winds and heavy rainfall. Immediate action, including the implementation of disaster preparedness protocols by INGD and support from humanitarian partners, is crucial in addressing the potential humanitarian crisis resulting from this cyclone. The ongoing observations from weather authorities will be essential in informing the necessary response measures to safeguard affected communities.

Original Source: reliefweb.int