Mozambique Faces Threat from Cyclone Dikeledi: Update as of January 13, 2025

Mozambique is currently facing Cyclone Dikeledi, which has intensified and is expected to impact Nampula and Zambezia provinces with heavy rainfall and strong winds. Approximately 255,310 people are projected to be affected, with significant risks of flooding and damage to infrastructure. Government and humanitarian partners are activating preparedness measures to assist affected communities, despite stretched resources due to recent cyclones.

Mozambique is currently confronting a new weather threat as Tropical Storm Dikeledi has intensified into a tropical cyclone. The cyclone is advancing across Nampula province but is anticipated to weaken upon reaching land. It is expected to re-enter the Mozambique Channel near Angoche on January 14, potentially regaining strength as either a cyclone or intense cyclone.

The National Meteorology Institute (INAM) predicts strong winds and significant rainfall, with accumulations of up to 200 mm within 24 hours, to affect coastal districts, particularly Mossuril, Angoche, Mogincual, and Liupo in Nampula province. Areas in Zambezia province are also likely to experience impacts from the storm.

The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) has estimated that approximately 255,310 individuals may be affected by Cyclone Dikeledi, with around 98,000 individuals located in particularly high-risk areas. INGD has enacted government anticipatory protocols in Angoche and Mongicual districts to facilitate preparedness efforts, including the communication of advisories to at-risk communities and the prevention of evacuations.

Humanitarian partners are prepared to offer assistance should the need arise; however, resources are becoming increasingly constrained as Dikeledi marks the second cyclone to impact Mozambique within a month. The situation remains dynamic, with ongoing assessments of need and capacity for response within affected areas.

The provinces of Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia are currently experiencing extreme weather conditions. Notably, Nampula is projected to be the most severely affected province, with an estimated 255,310 individuals at risk of impact from Cyclone Dikeledi, including 98,000 in critical zones that may need immediate support. While Dikeledi may mirror the intensity of Cyclone Chido based on heavy rainfall and wind speeds, it is forecasted to be of relatively shorter duration.

Nevertheless, Cyclone Dikeledi presents a tangible threat of flooding along rivers and basins, alongside potential damage to roads and electrical infrastructure. Reports indicate that at least 491 schools and 62 health facilities remain vulnerable to destruction, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated disaster response efforts.

In summary, Mozambique is bracing for significant challenges due to Cyclone Dikeledi, with approximately 255,310 individuals projected to be affected. The impending storm is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rainfall across Nampula and Zambezia provinces. The government’s anticipatory measures and the readiness of humanitarian partners highlight the ongoing effort to mitigate the storm’s impact, although resources are becoming limited due to the frequency of cyclones in recent weeks.

Original Source: www.unocha.org