Consecutive Cyclones in Mozambique Illuminate Growing Climate Challenges

Mozambique has experienced three cyclones within a three-month period, raising concerns about increased storm frequency as a potential new normal. The storms have caused significant fatalities and destruction, particularly in impoverished regions, overwhelming local aid organizations. Experts suggest climate change may play a role in the rising cyclone intensity and frequency, highlighting the need for enhanced preparedness and resilience initiatives in affected communities.

In recent months, Mozambique has faced a sequence of three cyclones, raising concerns among experts regarding the possibility of more frequent storms becoming a new normal due to climate change. The ongoing cyclone cluster has severely impacted one of the world’s poorest regions, leaving countless individuals in distress and overwhelming aid organizations tasked with providing necessary support.

The cyclone season in Mozambique, typically spanning from November to April, began with Cyclone Chido in mid-December, which resulted in 120 fatalities after it affected Mayotte. Cyclone Dikeledi struck in January, causing five deaths, followed closely by Cyclone Jude that brought winds reaching 120 miles per hour, leading to 16 deaths and the destruction of over 40,000 homes in Mozambique, as reported by local authorities. Approximately 420,000 individuals across Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique have been affected by these storms, according to the United Nations.

The storms Dikeledi and Jude made landfall in close proximity to each other in Nampula province, a region that had not yet recovered from previous cyclonic impacts. Naemi Heita, leader of the Red Cross and Red Crescent delegation in Maputo, remarked on the compounded tragedy for communities still reeling from prior disasters. This area, already vulnerable due to its poverty, has seen depletion of resources and aid capabilities, as indicated by UNICEF spokesperson Guy Taylor.

As confirmed by Taylor, prior to the arrival of Cyclone Jude, the river basins and dams in Nampula province were nearly at capacity, which contributed to the overall vulnerability of the region. The continuously recurring disasters lead to exhaustion of supplies and reduced capacity to aid affected populations. Experts emphasize the need for increased investment in preparedness measures, as the frequency and intensity of cyclones have shown a concerning trend.

Historically, Mozambique has endured severe storms, including Cyclone Idai in 2019, which resulted in over 600 fatalities. While the death toll from the recent cyclones is lower than in past events, the escalation in cyclone frequency is undeniable; eight cyclones have impacted the nation since 2019. Sebastien Langlade, chief cyclone forecaster, noted that Mozambique experienced between six and seven cyclonic events per decade previously but has seen an increase with 10 occurrences in the last six seasons.

The rising temperature of ocean waters in the Mozambique channel contributes to the cyclone frequency, as warmer seas are known to fuel cyclonic activity. Notably, eight out of eleven tropical storms in the southwestern Indian Ocean this season have reached cyclone strength, surpassing typical rates. Langlade expressed uncertainty whether these patterns denote a natural fluctuation or a real correlation to climate change.

Despite this uncertain climate future, Taylor stressed the importance of adaptation and resilience. UNICEF has initiated efforts such as constructing over 1,000 cyclone-resistant classrooms in Mozambique, which highlights the dire need for enhanced preparedness to safeguard lives and infrastructure against recurring cyclonic devastation.

The recent cyclone cluster in Mozambique underscores the heightened risks posed by climate change and the necessity for improved disaster preparedness. With the increasing frequency and intensity of cyclones, it becomes imperative for international aid organizations and local governments to invest in the resilience of communities. Through proactive measures and infrastructural improvements, lives can be saved, and recovery can be facilitated more effectively in this vulnerable region.

Original Source: www.france24.com