Mozambique’s Response to Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi: Urgent Humanitarian Needs

As of 30 January 2025, Mozambique is confronting the aftermath of Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, which have affected over 737,000 individuals. UNHCR has reached 30,000 people, yet an additional US$ 7,991,000 is required to assist 362,000 more persons. Cyclones have particularly impacted Cabo Delgado and Nampula, where many communities face compounded crises due to conflict and climate-related disasters.

As of 30 January 2025, Mozambique has faced severe impacts from Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi. An estimated 737,305 individuals have been affected by the cyclones, with interventions from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reaching 30,000 people. However, an urgent requirement of US$ 7,991,000 exists to assist an additional 362,000 individuals in need.

Cyclone Chido, categorized as a powerful Category 4 storm, struck Mozambique on 15 December 2024, approximately 30 kilometers south of Pemba. The cyclone brought damaging winds reaching 80 kilometers per hour and heavy rainfall exceeding 250 millimeters within a single day. This disaster coincided with the commencement of Mozambique’s rainy season, which typically lasts from November to March and is frequently associated with increased risks of cyclones and flooding, thereby exacerbating the vulnerabilities of affected communities.

Following Chido, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi impacted Nampula on 13 January, affecting over 283,000 individuals. Government statistics indicate that Cyclone Chido alone has significantly impacted over 453,000 individuals, particularly in the provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula. These regions have suffered the most, with 272,832 people in Cabo Delgado and 175,169 in Nampula facing severe challenges, especially as many districts are home to large numbers of internally displaced persons (IDPs) who are already confronting the dual crises of conflict and climate shocks. Continued preparedness efforts remain imperative as the risk of further cyclonic activity remains heightened.

The current situation in Mozambique is dire due to recent cyclonic activity that has aggravated existing vulnerabilities within the population. Historically, the rainy season correlates with the emergence of cyclones and increased flooding risks, severely affecting communities, particularly in northern provinces. The dual impacts of climate change and conflict have intensified the challenges faced by already vulnerable populations, such as internally displaced persons, stressing the need for immediate humanitarian assistance and long-term recovery strategies.

The impact of Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi in Mozambique underscores the pressing need for enhanced humanitarian efforts and preparedness to address the extensive challenges faced by affected populations. With hundreds of thousands in need of support and substantial funding required to extend assistance, it is critical for national and international bodies to mobilize resources swiftly. The operational response must prioritize the most vulnerable groups, including internally displaced persons, to facilitate their recovery from overlapping crises.

Original Source: reliefweb.int