Mozambique is threatened by Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, which has regained strength and is expected to impact Nampula and surrounding provinces. Heavy rainfall and winds may result in significant flooding and infrastructure damage. Approximately 255,310 people are at risk, prompting the activation of emergency response protocols. Humanitarian agencies are prepared to assist despite stretched capacities due to previous cyclones.
Mozambique is currently facing a critical weather situation as Tropical Storm Dikeledi has regained intensity and transformed into a tropical cyclone. This weather system is traversing through the Nampula province and is expected to weaken as it crosses land. However, forecasts suggest that it may re-enter the Mozambique Channel near Angoche by January 14, with potential to re-intensify into a cyclone or intense cyclone due to favorable conditions in the channel.
The National Meteorology Institute (INAM) warns of strong winds and heavy rainfall, with anticipated precipitation reaching up to 200 mm within a 24-hour period. Coastal districts, including Mossuril, Angoche, and Mogincual, are on high alert, as well as districts in Zambezia province. The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) has projected that approximately 255,310 individuals will be affected by the cyclone, with 98,000 residing in high-risk areas requiring urgent assistance.
In light of the impending threat, the INGD has enacted the government’s anticipatory action protocols in Angoche and Mongicual districts. Ongoing preparedness measures include advisories for at-risk communities, preventive evacuations, and the pre-deployment of personnel to bolster local coordination efforts. Humanitarian partners remain alert, prepared to respond as necessary. However, it is important to note that resources may be strained, as Dikeledi marks the second cyclone to impact Mozambique within a month.
The current situation calls for immediate attention, particularly in Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia provinces, where heavy rainfall and destructive winds are rapidly contributing to hazardous conditions. Nampula is anticipated to experience the most severe impacts, further exacerbating the situation as effective responses to Dikeledi are hindered by the recent cyclone, Cyclone Chido. The risk of flooding remains high, along with potential damage to roads, electricity infrastructure, and critical facilities, including at least 491 schools and 62 health facilities.
The occurrence of tropical cyclones in Mozambique is not uncommon, particularly during the cyclone season when weather patterns can lead to severe storms. The region is frequently affected by heavy rains and strong winds, substantially impacting infrastructure and communities. Cyclone Dikeledi has emerged shortly after Cyclone Chido, highlighting the vulnerability of Mozambique to environmental threats and the need for ongoing disaster preparedness and response mechanisms to mitigate the impact on affected populations. The government and humanitarian agencies continuously work to establish a coordinated response to these natural disasters, focusing on the welfare of those in high-risk areas.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi poses a serious threat to Mozambique, particularly in the Nampula province, with heavy rainfall and potential flooding anticipated. The authorities have activated emergency protocols and prepared for immediate response, although resources are becoming stretched due to recent cyclonic activity. Coordination among government agencies and humanitarian partners will be vital in addressing the challenges posed by this cyclone to ensure the safety and wellbeing of affected populations in the region.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
