Mozambique: Overview of Cyclone Chido and Dikeledi’s Impact

Tropical Cyclone Chido and Cyclone Dikeledi have resulted in widespread devastation across Mozambique, impacting over 736,000 individuals and leading to significant loss of life and property. Cyclone Chido struck on 15 December, while Cyclone Dikeledi hit on 13 January, both causing severe damage to infrastructure and communities. Humanitarian response is urgently needed to support recovery efforts in the affected provinces.

The recent occurrence of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Mozambique has had devastating impacts on communities, occurring on 15 December 2024. The cyclone brought excessive rainfall, with over 250 mm recorded in 24 hours, accompanied by winds reaching 120 km/h. It subsequently affected Malawi and Zimbabwe, causing significant devastation in its path.

As of 24 December 2024, nearly 454,000 individuals have been reported affected, including 120 fatalities and 868 injuries. The destruction includes over 70,000 houses, 250 schools, 52 health centers, and 338 electricity poles. Further assessments are expected to reveal an increase in these alarming figures.

In Cabo Delgado Province, the districts most heavily impacted include Mecufi, Metuge, and Chiure, with approximately 272,000 individuals suffering from the effects. A multi-agency assessment led by INGD and supported by OCHA exposed the extent of damage, particularly in Mecufi, where nearly all homes were rendered uninhabitable.

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck Nampula province on 13 January 2025, bringing severe weather, including wind gusts up to 180 km/h and significant rainfall. As of 27 January, the cyclone has affected 283,334 individuals, with notable numbers among children and persons with disabilities. Damage includes over 80,000 houses and multiple health facilities and schools.

The most severely affected districts due to Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi include Mossuril, Ilha de Mozambique, and Monapo, with tens of thousands of individuals facing dire conditions. Recovery efforts are vital to address the destruction and assist the affected populations in both cyclone events.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi have brought unprecedented destruction to Mozambique, affecting well over 736,000 individuals combined and resulting in substantial loss of life and property. Ongoing assessments are crucial to accurately gauge the devastation. Humanitarian efforts must be prioritized to support recovery in hard-hit regions, and further assistance will be required as the situation unfolds.

Original Source: reliefweb.int