Mozambique Prepares for the Arrival of Intense Tropical Cyclone Chido

Tropical Cyclone Chido is expected to make landfall in Pemba, Mozambique, on 15 December 2024, bringing heavy rains up to 200mm and winds of 120 km/h. Approximately 1.7 million people, particularly in Cabo Delgado, are at risk. The government has activated emergency preparedness measures, and humanitarian agencies are mobilizing resources to respond to the potential disaster’s impact.

Mozambique is bracing for the impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which is anticipated to make landfall in Pemba (Cabo Delgado) early on 15 December 2024, categorized as an Intense Tropical Cyclone. With projections of up to 200mm of rainfall within 24 hours and winds reaching 120 km/h, Cyclone Chido manifests intensity similar to previous cyclones, Gombe (2022) and Freddy (2023). The imminent cyclone poses a significant threat, with 1.7 million individuals vulnerable, particularly in Cabo Delgado where one million people may experience severe wind conditions.

The government’s preparations include the activation of the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD), which is prepositioning essential supplies and personnel in high-risk zones. The Emergency Preparedness and Response (ERP) Plan of the Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) has also been activated to enhance readiness and facilitate quick response strategies. Numerous provinces in northern Mozambique, including Nampula and Niassa, are expected to be affected, particularly due to the forecasted heavy rainfall and gale-force winds.

As the cyclone approaches, the Technical Council for Disaster Management highlighted the current state of river basins, reporting that while they are below alert levels, some areas may soon reach critical thresholds. Pemba City is especially vulnerable to urban flooding, with specific neighborhoods at heightened risk. There are also fears that the cyclone may exacerbate the ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula, which has already reported 283 cases and 21 fatalities up to 11 December.

Preparedness measures have reached an orange alert status, with instructions to activate provincial Centres for Operational Emergencies in vulnerable areas, and a potential escalation to a red alert based on the cyclone’s impact. Early warning systems are operational, delivering timely notifications through various communication channels to inform citizens of evacuation protocols. Furthermore, accommodation centers for displaced individuals have been identified, and anticipatory action plans are underway in specific districts.

The Humanitarian Coordinator is coordinating efforts with regional partners and headquarters to secure additional resources for response as necessary. Collaborative efforts among humanitarian organizations are being consolidated to address the impending emergency based on available capacities.

In summary, Cyclone Chido is expected to significantly affect Mozambique, with crucial preparations underway by the government and humanitarian organizations to mitigate the disaster’s impact on the vulnerable population.

The report addresses Cyclone Chido, highlighting the severe weather conditions forecasted for Mozambique, particularly in the northern provinces. The context emphasizes the urgency of disaster preparedness amidst a cyclone’s impending landfall, showcasing the government’s response mechanisms and collaborative efforts with humanitarian partners to address the potential repercussions. The background details prior cyclones’ impacts on the region, reinforcing the significance of adequate preparedness measures to protect lives and property.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido is poised to impact Mozambique severely, especially in Cabo Delgado, where significant vulnerabilities exist due to high winds and heavy rainfall. Government and humanitarian agencies are currently mobilizing resources and implementing emergency preparedness strategies to safeguard the affected populations. Continuous monitoring and coordination are essential as the situation develops to mitigate the cyclone’s potential devastation.

Original Source: www.unocha.org