Tropical Cyclone Chido: Impending Threat to Mozambique in December 2024

Tropical Cyclone Chido is forecasted to make landfall in Pemba, Mozambique, on December 15, 2024, bringing intense winds and heavy rainfall. It may affect 1.7 million people, mainly in Cabo Delgado and Nampula, with significant risks of urban flooding and potential exacerbation of a cholera outbreak. Disaster management efforts are currently in place amid growing concerns.

Tropical Cyclone Chido is projected to reach Pemba, Mozambique, during the early hours of December 15, 2024. Classified as an Intense Tropical Cyclone, it is expected to significantly impact several provinces, particularly Cabo Delgado and Nampula, along with Niassa, Tete, and potentially Zambezia. Forecasts suggest heavy rainfall of up to 200mm within a 24-hour period and wind speeds reaching 120 km/h from December 15 to 17. The severity of this cyclone is comparable to previous systems such as Tropical Cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023. The WFP-managed Disaster Analysis and Mapping system estimates that approximately 1.7 million individuals are at risk, with Cabo Delgado particularly vulnerable due to anticipated wind speeds exceeding 120 km/h. Although river basins are currently below alert levels, some may reach critical thresholds. Urban flooding is a concern for Pemba City, affecting areas like Bairro Cariaco and Alto Chuiba. Furthermore, the cyclone’s impact raises alarms regarding the ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula, which has reported 283 cases and 21 fatalities as of December 11, 2024.

Tropical Cyclone Chido is a significant weather event poised to affect Northern Mozambique in December 2024. Cyclones in this region pose threats through extreme winds and heavy rainfall, leading to floods and other natural disasters. Recent patterns indicate heightened cyclone intensity, similar to earlier cyclones Gombe and Freddy, which have had devastating impacts. Mozambique faces challenges in disaster management, particularly with existing health crises such as the cholera outbreak, complicating recovery efforts post-cyclone.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido represents a serious threat to Mozambique, particularly the northern provinces. With intense rainfall and winds expected, potential flooding and health crises, especially the cholera outbreak in Nampula, may worsen. The situation requires immediate attention from authorities and humanitarian organizations to mitigate damage and assist affected populations.

Original Source: reliefweb.int