Mozambique Braces for Impact of Intense Tropical Cyclone Chido

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Tropical Cyclone Chido, set to strike Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, on December 15, is expected to unleash heavy rainfall and strong winds, endangering approximately 1.7 million people. The National Institute for Disaster Management is mobilizing resources and implementing emergency protocols to address the cyclone’s impact, especially in light of an ongoing cholera outbreak.

As of December 13, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido is poised to make landfall in Pemba, Cabo Delgado, early on December 15 as an Intense Tropical Cyclone. This severe weather system is forecasted to deliver substantial rainfall, reaching up to 200mm within a 24-hour period, alongside wind speeds of up to 120 km/h. Approximately 1.7 million individuals are at risk, with one million residing in Cabo Delgado facing particularly hazardous conditions due to anticipated high winds. The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) is actively preparing for the impact, with existing emergency protocols engaged. The Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) has activated its Emergency Preparedness and Response (ERP) Plan, implementing early action measures to mitigate potential dangers.

The cyclone is forecasted to predominantly affect Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces, with additional impacts expected in Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia. This situation raises serious concerns regarding urban flooding in Pemba, particularly in neighborhoods such as Bairro Cariaco and Alto Chuiba. Furthermore, the ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula, which has reported 283 cases and 21 deaths, may worsen due to the cyclone’s arrival. The government has confirmed an orange alert status, enabling provincial emergency operational centers to mobilize in preparation for the cyclone’s impact.

Effective early warning systems are currently in place, disseminating evacuation advisories through various communication channels, including SMS, radio, and television. The INGD has also developed a comprehensive list of accommodation centers available to assist displaced individuals following the cyclone’s impact. Anticipatory Action protocols have been commissioned in two pilot districts within Nampula province to facilitate proactive measures. The HCT continues to coordinate with regional partners to enhance response capacity in light of the cyclone’s anticipated severity.

Tropical Cyclone Chido represents a significant meteorological event for Mozambique, as it is similar in strength to previous cyclones Gombe and Freddy. The government and humanitarian agencies have recognized the impending danger posed by this cyclone, particularly to the already vulnerable populations in the northern provinces. In regions like Cabo Delgado, which has faced consistent natural disasters, the need for timely preparedness becomes immeasurable. The existing cholera outbreak adds to the urgency of the situation, highlighting the intersection of health and natural disaster responses.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido is expected to make a dangerous impact on Mozambique, particularly in Cabo Delgado and surrounding provinces. With significant rainfall and high winds forecast, the government and humanitarian organizations are prioritizing disaster preparedness and swift response actions to protect the impacted populations. These measures are crucial in mitigating further consequences, especially amid ongoing health crises such as cholera.

Original Source: reliefweb.int

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