Tropical Cyclone DIKELEDI: Impact and Response in Nampula, Mozambique

Tropical Cyclone DIKELEDI made landfall in Nampula, Mozambique, on January 13, 2025, impacting various districts with winds reaching 150 km/h and heavy rainfall. Preliminary assessments indicate about 70,423 individuals affected, including substantial displacement and home destruction. Immediate needs include emergency shelter, non-food items, and WASH services, with ongoing assessments to further understand the situation.

On January 13, 2025, Tropical Cyclone DIKELEDI struck Nampula province, Mozambique, causing substantial damage as it traversed the region. The cyclone impacted several areas including Ilha de Moçambique, Monapo, Mogincual, and Angoche, manifesting sustained winds up to 150 km/h and gusts of 180 km/h, alongside torrential rainfall exceeding 200 mm within 24 hours. Its influence extended to several other districts such as Nacala Porto, Nacala-a-Velha, and Muecate.

As of January 16, preliminary assessments by the Displacement Tracking Matrix and Mozambique’s National Institute for Disaster Management reveal that around 70,423 individuals, roughly 15,123 households, were affected. Among these, approximately 11,267 individuals have varying disabilities, including physical and cognitive impairments. The cyclone led to partial destruction of 9,257 homes and complete destruction of 5,867 homes, with 2,316 individuals displaced.

Ten temporary shelters have been established for those affected, accommodating individuals across Mossuril (1,534), Mogincual (722), and Monapo (60) districts. Significant damage has also been reported to critical infrastructure, including healthcare facilities and schools, with key access roads rendered impassable, isolating communities further. By January 16, several districts remained without electricity or communication services, and the situation is expected to deteriorate as data collection progresses.

Priority needs for the affected population include Emergency Shelter and Non-Food Items (NFI), followed by Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) necessities, and food security. Immediate NFI requirements encompass tarpaulins, lighting, buckets, and blankets. Joint multi-sectoral needs assessments are currently underway, coordinated by the INGD and humanitarian partners to address the crisis effectively.

Tropical cyclones pose significant threats to coastal regions due to their capacity to inflict severe winds, heavy rains, and flooding. Nampula province in Mozambique frequently experiences such impacts, exacerbating vulnerabilities in communities, particularly among individuals with disabilities. Given the frequency of these natural disasters, understanding immediate needs and impacts is crucial for effective disaster response, recovery, and long-term resilience planning in the region.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone DIKELEDI has had a devastating impact on Nampula, Mozambique, affecting over 70,000 individuals and leading to significant displacement and infrastructure damage. Immediate response needs focus on shelter, non-food items, and essential health services. Continued assessments and coordinated efforts among humanitarian agencies are vital to mitigate the cyclone’s effects and support recovery efforts in the affected communities.

Original Source: reliefweb.int