Mozambique’s Ongoing Response to Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi: Urgent Needs and Challenges

Mozambique faces significant challenges following Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, with 737,305 individuals affected. UNHCR has reached 30,000, but an additional US$7.99 million is necessary for 362,000 more. The storms have compounded existing difficulties for IDPs, particularly in Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces.

As of 30 January 2025, Mozambique continues to grapple with the aftermath of Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, impacting a total of 737,305 individuals across the affected regions. UNHCR has provided assistance to 30,000 people, yet an urgent appeal for US$7,991,000 remains to extend help to an additional 362,000 individuals in need. The situation necessitates immediate humanitarian intervention to address critical needs and support recovery efforts.

Cyclone Chido struck the northern coastal provinces of Mozambique on 15 December 2024, registering as a Category 4 storm with winds reaching 80 kilometers per hour. It brought extensive rainfall exceeding 250 mm in 24 hours, initiating the region’s rainy season and a heightened risk of severe weather events. Shortly thereafter, Cyclone Dikeledi impacted Nampula on 13 January, further straining the affected communities already grappling with the repercussions of climate-induced disasters.

The latest reports indicate that over 453,000 individuals were affected by Cyclone Chido, particularly in the provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula. Government statistics reveal that 272,832 people in Cabo Delgado and 175,169 individuals in Nampula were severely impacted. Many of these districts host considerable numbers of internally displaced persons (IDPs), exacerbating the challenges faced by these vulnerable populations trying to recover from the compounded crises of conflict and environmental disasters.

The increasing frequency of cyclones in Mozambique is a pressing concern, especially during the annual rainy season that runs from November to March. The region is historically susceptible to severe weather, leading to heightened risks of flooding and infrastructure damage. The recent cyclones have not only caused immediate devastation but have also complicated the ongoing recovery efforts for communities already affected by years of conflict and instability.

In conclusion, the response to Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi reveals the urgent humanitarian needs of over 737,000 individuals in Mozambique. With significant financial support required to aid additional populations, continued preparedness for potential future weather events is essential. Addressing the vulnerabilities of the affected communities, especially IDPs, remains critical in mitigating the consequences of climate change and conflict, fostering resilience for future challenges.

Original Source: reliefweb.int