Mozambique Faces Increased Vulnerability Following Tropical Cyclone Chido

Tropical Cyclone Chido has affected approximately 329,510 individuals across Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces, with significant destruction to housing and essential services. Emergency response efforts are underway, although challenges persist due to limited resources and the ongoing rainy season, exacerbating the vulnerabilities of affected communities.

The aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido continues to impact Mozambique, with the number of affected individuals rising as assessment teams reach new areas. Presently, it is estimated that 65,282 families, equivalent to approximately 329,510 people, have been affected across the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa. The cyclone has caused significant destruction, particularly in Cabo Delgado, which is already grappling with ongoing conflict.

Devastation includes the destruction of 39,133 houses and damage to an additional 13,343 homes, leaving countless individuals exposed to further vulnerabilities, particularly as the rainy season commences. Additionally, damage to health facilities—49 in total—and water systems has disrupted vital services and access to clean water, escalating the risk of disease outbreaks. The cyclone’s impact on agricultural resources has been severe, with destroyed seeds necessitating immediate replenishment to avoid an increased dependency on external aid.

In response, humanitarian partners are mobilizing resources to address immediate needs in shelter, food, WASH, health, and protection services. However, they face challenges due to overstretched capacities and declining stockpiles, hindering the rapid scaling-up of assistance. Collaboration between the Mozambique Humanitarian Country Team and Development Cooperation Partners is crucial in mobilizing resources to support the government’s endeavours in addressing these urgent needs.

In December 2024, Mozambique faced the destructive forces of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which significantly impacted the northern provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa. The cyclone’s high winds and torrential rainfall resulted in widespread devastation, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities in these regions. Many areas were already suffering from the consequences of ongoing conflict, further complicating the humanitarian response. The need to address shelter, food security, health services, and overall protection is critical as those affected face heightened risks during the rainy season. Efforts from local and international organizations are vital for addressing immediate needs, although challenges remain.

The intense impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido on Mozambique has left thousands of families in dire circumstances, with urgent needs for shelter, food, and health services. Despite ongoing response efforts, challenges due to limited resources and the complexities of the situation hinder effective assistance. It is imperative for humanitarian partners to mobilize support and ensure that immediate needs are met to protect the most vulnerable populations.

Original Source: reliefweb.int