Overview of Tropical Cyclone Chido’s Impact on Mozambique in December 2024

Tropical Cyclone Chido is expected to make landfall in Pemba, Mozambique, on December 15, 2024, as an Intense Tropical Cyclone. Forecasts predict heavy rainfall and strong winds, affecting over 1.7 million people, particularly in Cabo Delgado. Urban flooding risks are notable, especially in specific areas of Pemba City, and concerns grow for the cholera outbreak in Nampula. The government has noted that river basins are stable but may soon reach alert levels due to the cyclone.

Tropical Cyclone Chido is predicted to strike Pemba on December 15, 2024, as an Intense Tropical Cyclone. Provinces in northern Mozambique, particularly Cabo Delgado and Nampula, are expected to be severely affected, with possible impacts extending to Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia. Forecasts indicate heavy rainfall of up to 200mm within 24 hours and wind speeds reaching 120 km/h from December 15 to 17. The World Food Programme’s Disaster Analysis and Mapping system estimates that approximately 1.7 million people are at risk, notably one million individuals in Cabo Delgado facing potential wind damage.

The Technical Council for Disaster Management, convened by the government on December 12 in Maputo, reported that river basins are currently stable but may approach alert levels due to the cyclone’s effects. Urban flooding is a particular risk for Pemba City, affecting neighborhoods such as Bairro Cariaco, Alto Chuiba, and Eduardo Mondlane. Concerns have arisen regarding the exacerbation of the ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula, previously reported with 283 cases and 21 fatalities as of December 11.

Tropical cyclones, particularly in Southeast Africa, can have devastating impacts on the regions they hit. Specifically, Cyclone Chido is expected to bring intense weather conditions, causing flooding, wind damage, and posing significant threats to public health, especially in areas already vulnerable to disease outbreaks such as cholera. Understanding the geographical and environmental context of Mozambique is critical, as this region has frequently faced such challenges, prompting governmental and humanitarian responses.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido is set to impact northern Mozambique significantly, with the potential for widespread flooding and wind damage. The situation is exacerbated by ongoing health crises, such as the cholera outbreak in Nampula, indicating the need for timely and effective disaster response strategies. The involvement of local and international entities will be crucial in mitigating the effects of this cyclone.

Original Source: reliefweb.int