Mozambique Prepares for Tropical Cyclone Chido: Urgent Measures Activated

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Tropical Cyclone Chido is anticipated to impact Mozambique, particularly Pemba in Cabo Delgado, on December 15, 2024, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. Approximately 1.7 million people are at risk, with significant emergency preparedness measures in place. The government has activated an orange alert and is coordinating evacuations, while addressing concerns surrounding an ongoing cholera outbreak.

Tropical Cyclone Chido is projected to make landfall in Pemba, Cabo Delgado, early on December 15, 2024, as an Intense Tropical Cyclone. This impending cyclone is expected to deliver heavy rainfall of up to 200mm within 24 hours and winds reaching 120 km/h. Approximately 1.7 million individuals are subject to exposure, with one million residents in Cabo Delgado threatened by winds exceeding 120 km/h. Emergency preparedness plans are being mobilized by the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD), which is coordinating positions and resources to aid vulnerable communities. The Humanitarian Coordination Team (HCT) has activated its Emergency Preparedness and Response (ERP) Plan to enhance readiness and early action initiatives.

The situation in Mozambique indicates that Tropical Cyclone Chido will predominantly impact the northern provinces, particularly Cabo Delgado and Nampula, with additional concerns in Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia. The forecast predicts storm conditions including heavy rains and strong winds from December 15 to 17, 2024. The government officially stated a current orange alert and activated provincial Centres for Operational Emergencies in high-risk regions. Public notifications via SMS, radio, and television are disseminating evacuation directives to those in at-risk areas to mitigate potential disaster effects before landfall. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding an ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula worsening due to the cyclone.

Significant measures are being enforced to prepare for and respond to the impending cyclone. The INGD is working on identifying accommodation centers for evacuees and prepositioning necessary stocks and assets to support affected populations. Additionally, the government has initiated Anticipatory Action protocols in select districts of Nampula. Collaboratively, the Area Humanitarian Country Team (AHCT) will enhance response coordination across the northern provinces, ensuring that adequate support and resources are in place to address any humanitarian needs arising from this disaster. The Humanitarian Coordinator is actively seeking additional support from regional and headquarters bodies, including the potential deployment of UNDAC teams depending on the cyclone’s impacts.

Tropical Cyclones pose a significant risk to coastal regions, particularly in countries such as Mozambique. Due to its geographical location, Mozambique frequently experiences severe weather events, which can lead to devastating consequences for communities. Intense Tropical Cyclones like Gombe (2022) and Freddy (2023), which struck previously, have demonstrated the destructive capabilities of such storms. Anticipatory action and emergency preparedness measures are crucial in mitigating the impact of incoming cyclones, enabling communities to respond effectively and reduce the loss of life and property. The involvement of governmental and humanitarian organizations is vital for coordinated disaster response to protect vulnerable populations.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a significant threat to northern Mozambique, particularly Cabo Delgado, where millions are at risk due to expected heavy rainfall and strong winds. The government’s proactive approach in preparing for the cyclone by activating emergency plans and coordinating resources is crucial for minimizing potential disasters. Continuous communication and effective evacuation strategies are essential for safeguarding the affected communities, especially given the existing health concerns with the cholera outbreak in Nampula. The collaboration among humanitarian organizations and local authorities will be pivotal in delivering timely assistance and support to those most affected.

Original Source: reliefweb.int

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