Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, 2023, causing extensive damage in Cabo Delgado and Nampula Provinces with winds up to 250 km/h. An estimated 2.5 million people could be affected, with significant impacts also reported in Niassa Province. Emergency response efforts are underway following the announcement of a DREF application by the Mozambique Red Cross Society to assist those in need.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in the early hours of December 15, 2023, impacting the southern region of Cabo Delgado Province, near the border with Nampula Province, close to Pemba. Classified as a category 4 cyclone, it produced intense winds of 200 km/h and gusts reaching 250 km/h. The cyclone began causing significant damage with destructive winds and heavy rain starting around 3 a.m. local time. Forecasts from INAM indicated potential rainfall of 250 mm within 24 hours and wind gusts up to 260 km/h in several districts, including Mecu, Metuge, and Pemba City.
The cyclone has had far-reaching effects, especially in the areas directly under its path, leading to overwhelming damage and significant challenges for emergency response teams. As of now, comprehensive assessments of the situation are ongoing; initial predictions estimate that up to 2.5 million people may be affected. Key regions of concern include districts within Cabo Delgado and Nampula Provinces, where populations are at elevated risk due to the cyclone’s severity. Reports suggest that essential services, particularly mobile networks in Pemba, have been disrupted, although electricity remains operational in select areas.
The Mozambique Red Cross Society (CVM) has submitted a DREF application based on current information to facilitate response activities in the most impacted regions. The areas identified as severely affected include Cabo Delgado’s Ancuabe, Balama, and Pemba, with about 1.5 million people exposed, alongside Nampula’s districts where approximately 730,000 individuals face risks. Niassa Province is also affected, with an estimated exposed population of 215,000 in towns including Cuamba and Maua.
Preparedness and response measures are critical as further updates regarding the severity of the situation and the required interventions are awaited.
The occurrence of Tropical Cyclones in Mozambique is not uncommon, particularly during the cyclone season which typically spans from November to April. These powerful storms often bring with them heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the potential for flooding and landslides, significantly impacting communities. The capacity for emergency response is vital, particularly in densely populated areas that are prone to such weather events. This document highlights the recent Cyclone Chido and its projected impact, as well as the measures being taken by the Mozambique Red Cross Society to address the emergency situation.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has resulted in significant threats to life and property in Mozambique, particularly within Cabo Delgado and Nampula Provinces. With initial assessments indicating potential exposure of up to 2.5 million people, immediate response efforts are critical to mitigate the impacts of this devastating event. The situation remains fluid, and further evaluations will help guide relief efforts, ensuring affected populations receive necessary support.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
