Mozambique Faces Threat from Tropical Cyclone Chido: WFP Situation Report
On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido hit Mozambique, endangering 2 million people. Urgent assistance has been deployed, with WFP delivering emergency food to affected families. Areas at high risk include multiple districts in Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces, necessitating immediate efforts for preparedness and response.
On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido struck the Mecufi district in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, leading to significant concerns for the population. Approximately 2 million individuals have been deemed at risk, with 627,000 categorized as high risk and another 1.4 million at moderate risk. The cyclone poses threats to essential infrastructure, including river basins, roads, electric power poles, and health facilities, highlighting the urgent need for responsive measures.
Some of the districts most vulnerable to the cyclone’s impact include Mecufi, Chiure, Metuge, Pemba, Namuno, Montepuez, and Ancuabe in Cabo Delgado, along with Memba, Nacaroa, and Erati in Nampula province. Preparatory actions have already commenced, with early warning messages and voluntary evacuation directives disseminated starting December 8 in Nampula and on December 12 in Pemba. These actions are part of the activated Anticipatory Action Plan, which aims to safeguard the affected populations.
In the immediate aftermath of the cyclone, the World Food Programme (WFP) has responded quickly by providing emergency food assistance to roughly 500 families displaced by the cyclone in temporary shelters located in Pemba. Furthermore, in Mogincual, Nampula, food distributions were conducted in temporary accommodations, supporting the efforts of the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) with backing from WFP. Comprehensive assessments across affected districts such as Mecufi and Chiure are also slated for execution to determine further needs and response measures.
The report addresses the extensive impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which made landfall in Mozambique, resulting in the identification of millions at risk. By highlighting the vulnerabilities of specific regions, the document underscores the pivotal role of early warning systems and emergency food assistance programs in reducing potential casualties and enhancing preparedness. The response from WFP illustrates the importance of swift action in addressing humanitarian needs in crisis situations.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido’s landfall poses a significant threat to the populations of Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces in Mozambique. With approximately 2 million people identified as vulnerable, immediate preparedness and response efforts are crucial. The swift delivery of emergency aid by the WFP highlights the critical need for coordinated disaster response strategies. Continuous assessments will be necessary to address the ongoing humanitarian challenges in the aftermath of this cyclone.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
