Mozambique Prepares for Landfall of Intense Tropical Cyclone Chido

Tropical Cyclone Chido is expected to hit Mozambique on December 15, 2024, with heavy rains and winds affecting approximately 1.7 million people. The National Institute for Disaster Management is mobilizing resources, while the Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan is activated to address the cyclone’s impact, particularly in Cabo Delgado and Nampula regions.

Tropical Cyclone Chido is anticipated to make landfall near Pemba in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, during the early hours of December 15, 2024. The expected intensity of the cyclone is comparable to that of its predecessors, Cyclones Gombe and Freddy, with forecasts indicating heavy rainfall of up to 200mm in a 24-hour period and wind speeds reaching 120 km/h. Approximately 1.7 million individuals, particularly in Cabo Delgado, are at risk from the cyclone’s severe impacts. In preparation for the impending disaster, the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) is mobilizing resources and personnel to vulnerable regions, while the Humanitarian Country Team has activated an Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan.

The situation indicates that Cyclone Chido poses significant risks to northern provinces such as Cabo Delgado and Nampula, as well as Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia. The government reports that while river basins are currently below alert levels, monitoring continues due to potential rapid changes in water levels. Pemba City is particularly vulnerable to urban flooding, with several districts identified as high-risk areas. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding the worsening of an ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula due to the cyclone’s impact.

In light of the cyclone, the government has issued an orange alert across affected provinces and activated Emergency Operational Centers in high-risk regions. The population is being notified through various channels to encourage timely evacuations. In addition, the INGD has developed accommodation plans for those affected. The Technical Council for Disaster Management is implementing anticipatory actions in selected districts. Humanitarian agencies are coordinating resources and assessing the situation to provide necessary support in the aftermath of the cyclone.

The context of this report highlights the vulnerability of Mozambique to intense tropical cyclones, exemplified by recent impactful weather events like Cyclones Gombe and Freddy. Cyclone Chido poses an imminent threat, potentially affecting millions of individuals in northern provinces. The government and humanitarian organizations are actively engaging in disaster preparedness to mitigate risks and address the potential devastation brought about by severe weather conditions. The involvement of local and international bodies underscores the collaborative efforts to ensure swift response strategies during natural disasters.

In conclusion, the impending landfall of Tropical Cyclone Chido is set to affect numerous individuals and regions in Mozambique, particularly in Cabo Delgado. The preemptive measures enacted by the government and humanitarian partners demonstrate a commitment to disaster readiness and support for vulnerable populations. Continuous monitoring of the situation is essential as the operation progresses to provide relief and assistance as necessary.

Original Source: reliefweb.int