Mozambique Faces Cyclone Dikeledi: Risks and Preparations Amid Severe Weather

Mozambique is confronting a new challenge as Tropical Storm Dikeledi re-intensifies into a cyclone, threatening Nampula and Zambezia provinces with heavy rainfall and strong winds. Approximately 255,310 individuals may be affected, prompting disaster management protocols. Governments and humanitarian partners are gearing up for potential impacts, as Dikeledi signifies the second major cyclone to strike in a month.

Mozambique is currently grappling with the reintensification of Tropical Storm Dikeledi as it progresses across Nampula province, where it is anticipated to weaken upon landfall. However, forecasts indicate that the storm may regain strength upon entering the Mozambique Channel near Angoche by 14 January, possibly evolving into a cyclone or intense cyclone. The National Meteorology Institute (INAM) warns of severe weather, including heavy rainfall of up to 200 mm in a 24-hour period and strong winds, affecting coastal districts such as Mossuril, Angoche, and Mogincual in Nampula, as well as regions in Zambezia province.

The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) has projected that approximately 255,310 individuals may be affected by Cyclone Dikeledi, with about 98,000 residing in high-risk areas. In response, the INGD has initiated government anticipatory action protocols in Angoche and Mongicual, enabling ongoing preparedness measures such as issuing advisories, facilitating preventive evacuations, and deploying staff to enhance local coordination efforts. Humanitarian organizations are on alert to provide assistance if necessary, although their resources are currently strained, as Dikeledi marks the second cyclone to impact Mozambique within a month.

The meteorological conditions in Mozambique reflect the significant threats posed by Cyclone Dikeledi, particularly within provincial boundaries of Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia. Notably, the storm is expected to produce severe weather characterized by torrential rainfall and destructive winds, particularly impacting Nampula most intensively. Comparatively, Cyclone Dikeledi exhibits patterns similar to Cyclone Chido, but it is likely to have a shorter duration and diminish in overall impact. Nevertheless, the cyclone poses substantial risks, highlighted by potential flooding in local rivers and basins as well as threats to critical infrastructure including roads, electricity supply, schools, and health facilities.

The weather system in Mozambique has deteriorated due to the development of Tropical Storm Dikeledi, which has transformed into a tropical cyclone, mainly affecting the Nampula province. With climate patterns changing and increased cyclone frequency, Mozambique is under pressure from environmental challenges that threaten livelihoods and infrastructure. The region faces not only immediate dangers from the cyclone but also potential long-term repercussions for disaster preparedness and response. The roles of the INAM and INGD are critical in mitigating risks and providing essential information and support to local populations, emphasizing the need for timely intervention and effective coordination among humanitarian partners.

In conclusion, Mozambique is facing another significant threat from Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, with deteriorating weather conditions impacting Nampula province severely. The urgency of preparedness measures led by the National Institute for Disaster Management is pronounced, as it gears up to assist approximately 255,310 individuals expected to be affected. While the cyclone may have limited impact compared to its predecessor, the risks of flooding, damage to infrastructure, and disruption to essential services remain critical concerns requiring vigilant monitoring and coordinated humanitarian response.

Original Source: reliefweb.int