Mozambique’s Cyclone Cluster Signals Alarming Increase in Storm Frequency
Mozambique faces a worrying cluster of three cyclones in three months, causing destruction and increased vulnerability in already impoverished regions. Experts indicate that such extreme weather patterns may become the new normal, raising alarms about the capacity for aid response and the urgent need for enhanced preparedness and resilience measures.
Mozambique has faced a troubling cluster of three cyclones within a span of three months, exacerbating the struggles of one of the world’s most impoverished regions. This series has driven thousands into distress, prompting concerns from experts regarding the increasing regularity of such severe storms. The recurrent cyclonic activity continues to strain the efforts of aid organizations working to assist affected populations, as repeated disasters have devastated numerous homes.
The cyclone season in Mozambique, which usually extends from November to April, began with Cyclone Chido striking in mid-December. This cyclone led to the loss of at least 120 lives after impacting the French territory of Mayotte. Cyclone Dikeledi followed in January, resulting in five fatalities, while Cyclone Jude recently brought devastating winds reaching 195 kilometers per hour, resulting in 16 more deaths and the destruction of over 40,000 homes in Mozambique alone, affecting approximately 420,000 people across Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique.
According to Naemi Heita, head of the Red Cross and Red Crescent delegation in Maputo, these storms amount to a
The recent spate of cyclones in Mozambique points to a concerning trend regarding increasing storm frequency and intensity, creating significant challenges for vulnerable communities already struggling to recover. This situation necessitates a stark reassessment of preparedness and aid strategies in order to enhance resilience against future climatic events. It is crucial to explore long-term solutions to bolster the region’s infrastructure and support systems, given the potential impacts of climate change.
Original Source: www.france24.com
