Mozambique Prepares for Tropical Cyclone Chido: Flash Update No. 1

Tropical Cyclone Chido is expected to hit Pemba, Mozambique, on 15 December 2024, bringing heavy rains and winds threatening 1.7 million individuals. The INGD has initiated emergency preparedness measures, including resource mobilization and communication efforts to facilitate evacuations and coordinate shelters as the cyclone bears down on vulnerable areas.

Tropical Cyclone Chido is poised to make landfall in Pemba, Cabo Delgado, on 15 December 2024, as an Intense Tropical Cyclone. Anticipated impacts include heavy rainfall reaching up to 200mm and wind speeds of 120 km/h, resembling the destructive force of Cyclones Gombe (2022) and Freddy (2023). Approximately 1.7 million individuals are at risk, with 1 million residents in Cabo Delgado facing potentially severe winds. The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) is mobilizing resources and coordinating staff to support vulnerable communities. The Emergency Preparedness and Response (ERP) Plan has been activated to enhance readiness and early actions in anticipation of the cyclone’s arrival.

Historically, Mozambique has faced numerous weather-related disasters, necessitating robust disaster management systems. Cyclone-related events in the past have resulted in significant humanitarian crises, prompting the government and international organizations to implement extensive preparedness protocols. The ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula complicates the situation, as health risks may escalate due to the cyclone’s impact on sanitation and access to clean water. Current reports indicate that river basins remain below alert levels but may soon rise to concerning levels as rains commence.

Local authorities have issued an orange alert status, which may transition to red if the cyclone’s impact is severe. Emergency services are utilizing various communication channels to warn those in affected regions, advising evacuations where necessary. The INGD is also establishing accommodation centers for displaced individuals and coordinating resource allocations to areas at high risk. Collaborative efforts with humanitarian partners are focused on reinforcing response capabilities across the affected provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa, ensuring a prompt and effective reaction to this impending crisis.

Tropical Cyclone Chido represents a significant threat to Mozambique, particularly to the northern provinces known for their vulnerability to extreme weather events. Such cyclones have a historical precedent in devastating communities, causing loss of life and exacerbating existing public health crises. The preparedness and responsiveness of national and international agencies are essential in minimizing the impacts of these disasters, particularly with concurrent issues like the cholera outbreak currently affecting Nampula. The proactive measures being taken underline the importance of readiness in disaster-prone regions.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido is anticipated to be a severe weather event affecting over 1.7 million people, particularly in Cabo Delgado. The government’s readiness measures highlight the urgency of preparation in mitigating the cyclone’s impacts, especially amid an ongoing cholera outbreak. Continued coordination among humanitarian organizations will be crucial in addressing the needs of individuals and families affected by this impending disaster.

Original Source: reliefweb.int