Mozambique: Humanitarian Response to Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi as of February 2025

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck Mozambique on 13 January 2025, severely affecting Nampula province. The cyclone resulted in widespread damage, impacting over 283,000 individuals and destroying numerous houses, health facilities, and schools. Humanitarian assessments identified critical needs for shelter, food, and sanitation, with ongoing efforts to provide assistance amidst the challenging weather conditions and upcoming lean season.

On 13 January 2025, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi made landfall south of Ilha de Mozambique, causing significant devastation in the Nampula province. The cyclone prompted hazardous weather conditions, with Mossuril experiencing the highest rainfall of 247 mm on 14 January, closely followed by Muecate (240.1 mm) and Nampula (210.4 mm). Wind speeds reached 150 km/h, with gusts up to 180 km/h, affecting approximately 283,334 individuals, damaging an estimated 80,865 houses, 48 health facilities, and 221 schools, along with 4,092 hectares of agricultural land.

The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) conducted a Multisector Initial Rapid Assessment (MIRA) from 25-29 January to evaluate the situation in Nacala Porto, Ilha de Mozambique, and Monapo districts. They identified Shelter/Non-Food Items (NFI), emergency food, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), and health services as the priority needs for the affected population. Currently, 33,000 out of a targeted 234,000 individuals have received livelihoods assistance, with the Shelter/NFI cluster reaching 18% of its target, distributing essential items and tarps.

The WASH sector has fulfilled 14% of its goals through various activities, including hygiene promotion and water trucking. As the rainy and cyclone seasons persist until April, urgent requirements for food, seeds, construction materials, and nutritional and protection assistance are critical. Food Security and Livelihoods (FSL) partners are actively working to mobilize resources and logistics for timely assistance delivery.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has significantly impacted Mozambique, affecting thousands and damaging critical infrastructure. Humanitarian response efforts are underway, as agencies prioritize urgent needs such as shelter, food, and health services. Continued mobilization of resources and logistical support will be essential to address the ongoing challenges faced by the affected communities throughout the rainy season.

Original Source: reliefweb.int