Mozambique Braces for Tropical Cyclone Chido: Key Updates and Preparedness Measures

Tropical Cyclone Chido is projected to hit Pemba, Cabo Delgado, on December 15, bringing severe winds and heavy rains. The cyclone threatens 1.7 million people, prompting active disaster preparedness measures. The Government has activated emergency alerts and coordinated humanitarian efforts to protect affected communities. Urban flooding risks and health crises are additional concerns as the cyclone approaches.

The imminent landfall of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Pemba, Cabo Delgado, is anticipated early on December 15, 2024, marking it as an Intense Tropical Cyclone with projected winds of up to 120 km/h and heavy rainfall reaching 200mm in 24 hours. Approximately 1.7 million individuals are at risk, including 1 million in Cabo Delgado. The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) is actively coordinating resources and response measures, including accommodation for those affected. Emergency alerts are being disseminated to the population in vulnerable areas, urging evacuations.

The Government’s Technical Council for Disaster Management convened to assess the situation and confirmed a current orange alert, with preparations at Provincial Centres for Operational Emergencies being initiated. Chido is expected to impact several provinces, notably Cabo Delgado and Nampula, raising concerns of urban flooding in Pemba and the exacerbation of existing health crises such as the cholera outbreak in Nampula with 283 cases and 21 deaths reported.

Preparedness measures, including early warning systems, have been activated to inform residents about the cyclone and necessary safety procedures. Additional actions include pre-positioning of humanitarian supplies and resources, as well as coordination with humanitarian partners through the Area Humanitarian Country Team for timely responses in affected areas. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is closely monitoring developments and mobilizing support as required.

The situation remains dynamic, and ongoing evaluations and adjustments to the response plan will be essential as Tropical Cyclone Chido approaches landfall.

Mozambique frequently experiences severe weather phenomena, particularly tropical cyclones that impact the country’s infrastructure and population. The current threat from Tropical Cyclone Chido underscores the vulnerabilities faced by the Mozambican populace due to extreme weather patterns, exacerbated by existing public health issues. The government’s proactive measures in disaster risk management demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding the population and mitigating potential damages caused by cyclonic activity.

Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a significant threat to Mozambique, particularly in Cabo Delgado and surrounding provinces. With extensive preparations underway by governmental and humanitarian organizations, there is a concerted effort to protect the affected population and respond effectively to potential disaster impacts. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments critical to ensuring the safety of those in vulnerable areas.

Original Source: reliefweb.int