Mozambique Faces New Threat from Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi as Preparations Intensify
Mozambique is bracing for Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, which has formed over Nampula province and may re-intensify in the Mozambique Channel by January 14. Approximately 255,310 people may be affected, with significant rainfall and winds forecasted. The government has activated disaster protocols while humanitarian organizations prepare for potential assistance amid the challenges posed by this cyclone following another storm earlier this month.
Mozambique is currently under threat from Tropical Storm Dikeledi, which has intensified into a tropical cyclone while moving across Nampula province. The storm is projected to weaken as it moves inland, but it is expected to re-enter the Mozambique Channel near Angoche by January 14, where it could regain cyclone or intense cyclone status. The National Meteorology Institute (INAM) forecasts heavy rainfall, reaching up to 200 mm in 24 hours, and strong winds impacting coastal districts such as Mossuril, Angoche, and Mogincual, with the Zambezia province also at risk.
The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) estimates that approximately 255,310 individuals will be affected by Cyclone Dikeledi, with about 98,000 residing in high-risk areas. Consequently, the government has initiated anticipatory action protocols in Angoche and Mongicual, launching preparedness measures that include issuing advisories to vulnerable communities and arranging for necessary evacuations and deployment of support staff. Humanitarian partners stand ready to provide assistance, although resources are constrained as Dikeledi marks the second cyclone to hit Mozambique within a month.
Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia provinces are presently experiencing adverse weather conditions, particularly near the landfall zone of Dikeledi. Heavy rainfall and destructive winds are forecasted, presenting dangerous sea conditions particularly between Ilha de Moçambique and northern Zambezia. Nampula is anticipated to be the worst impacted province, with significant flooding risk to rivers and basins, alongside potential damage to infrastructure, including roads and electricity. The cyclone poses a grave threat to public facilities, with at least 491 schools and 62 health facilities identified as being at risk from destruction.
Tropical cyclones frequently pose a significant threat to Mozambique, particularly during the cyclone season. The country is situated along the Indian Ocean coast, which makes it vulnerable to such meteorological events. Tropical Storm Dikeledi represents a continuation of these challenges, having re-intensified and now threatening coastal and nearby inland regions. Previous cyclones, like Cyclone Chido, have already stressed disaster management systems and capacity in the region, underscoring the ongoing vulnerabilities faced by communities.
In summary, Mozambique is faced with the impending threat of Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, posing substantial risks to human lives and infrastructure, especially in Nampula province. The government has activated disaster management protocols in anticipation of the impact, with substantial efforts underway to protect at-risk communities. International and national humanitarian organizations must remain prepared to respond to this emerging crisis as communities brace themselves for the oncoming storm.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
