Mozambique Faces Challenges as Cyclone Dikeledi Approaches

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has formed and is affecting Mozambique, particularly Nampula province. Heavy rainfall and strong winds are expected to impact various regions, with a projected 255,310 individuals at risk. The government has activated emergency protocols, and humanitarian partners are prepared to assist amidst stretched resources due to recent cyclones.

As of January 13, 2025, Mozambique is grappling with the repercussions of Cyclone Dikeledi, which has regained strength as it moves across Nampula province. Despite a forecast of weakening over land, the cyclone is projected to re-enter the Mozambique Channel by January 14, possibly intensifying once again. Heavy rainfall, projected to reach up to 200 millimeters within 24 hours, alongside strong winds reaching 120 kilometers per hour, are expected to heavily impact coastal districts, particularly Angoche, Mogincual, and Mossuril in Nampula province, as well as the Zambezia province.

Approximately 255,310 individuals are estimated to be at risk, with 98,000 categorized as residing in high-risk zones necessitating immediate assistance. The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) has implemented anticipatory measures, including disseminating advisories and facilitating evacuations within the most affected districts. Humanitarian partners remain on standby to provide necessary support, acknowledging that this marks the second cyclone to affect Mozambique within a single month, thereby straining available resources.

Currently, provinces such as Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia are experiencing hazardous weather conditions. The cyclone is instigating damaging winds and intense rainfall that threaten to cause flooding in rivers and basins. The impacts are anticipated to be significant, with at least 491 schools and 62 health facilities at risk of destruction.

In summary, Cycone Dikeledi poses severe threats to Mozambique’s infrastructure and the safety of its population, challenging local emergency management capabilities and necessitating international humanitarian assistance.

Mozambique has been facing significant climate-related challenges in recent years, particularly due to cyclones. Tropical Storm Dikeledi has emerged as a serious threat, intensifying into a cyclone that encompasses several provinces and risking the lives and livelihoods of many residents. The National Meteorology Institute and the National Institute for Disaster Management play crucial roles in monitoring weather developments and coordinating disaster response efforts. This cyclical pattern of cyclones underscores the increasing vulnerability of Mozambique to intense weather systems, exacerbated by climate change.

Cyclone Dikeledi is a potent reminder of Mozambique’s vulnerability to severe weather systems, with the potential to cause widespread devastation to both people and infrastructure. The response efforts led by the ING and the preparedness actions taken underscore the urgent need for effective disaster risk management strategies. As the nation braces for the forthcoming impact, it is pivotal for humanitarian partners to coordinate their efforts and resources effectively to assist the affected communities.

Original Source: reliefweb.int