Mozambique: Impact of Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi

Mozambique has been severely impacted by Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, leading to widespread destruction and humanitarian crises. Cyclone Chido affected approximately 453,971 individuals and caused significant loss of life and property. Cyclone Dikeledi further exacerbated the situation, affecting over 283,000 people. Comprehensive assessments are ongoing, and international support is urgently required.

The communities of Mozambique are currently facing significant challenges due to the impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which made landfall on December 15, 2024. This cyclone brought intense rainfall exceeding 250mm within 24 hours and wind speeds up to 120 km/h, causing widespread destruction before moving into Malawi and Zimbabwe by December 17. Damage assessments revealed a grim reality for the affected population, indicating the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

As of December 24, 2024, an estimated 453,971 individuals have been affected, with 120 confirmed fatalities and 868 reported injuries. The disaster resulted in the destruction of over 70,000 homes, 250 schools, 52 health centers, and 338 electricity poles. These casualty reports are expected to rise as ongoing assessments continue to reveal the extent of the destruction.

In Cabo Delgado Province, the districts of Mecufi, Metuge, and Chiure, as well as the provincial capital Pemba, are among the hardest-hit areas, impacting an estimated 272,000 people. A comprehensive assessment conducted on December 18 by the National Institute for Natural Disasters and supported by the UN’s OCHA reflected the severity of the situation, observing almost complete devastation in Mecufi, with nearly all homes destroyed.

Following this, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck on January 13, 2025, impacting Nampula province. It produced severe weather, with recorded precipitation levels of up to 247mm and gusts of wind reaching 180 km/h. A rapid assessment indicated that Cyclone Dikeledi affected 283,334 individuals, including 142,598 children and many vulnerable populations.

The total damage included 80,865 homes, with significant losses reported in the districts of Mossuril, Ilha de Mozambique, Monapo, and Nacala Porto. These figures highlight the escalating humanitarian crisis in Mozambique, necessitating immediate international support and relief efforts to assist the affected populations.

Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi have profoundly impacted Mozambique, resulting in extensive damage and significant humanitarian needs. With hundreds of thousands affected and infrastructure severely compromised, the situation remains critical. Continued assessments and international assistance are essential to address the urgent needs of those impacted by these natural disasters.

Original Source: reliefweb.int