Devastating Impact of Tropical Cyclones on Mozambique: A Call for Humanitarian Aid
Mozambique is experiencing critical impacts from Tropical Storms Chido and Dikeledi, affecting over 450,000 and 283,000 individuals respectively. The destruction includes thousands of homes and critical infrastructure, with significant loss of life reported. Urgent humanitarian response efforts are needed to address the extensive needs of the affected populations.
Mozambique is currently facing severe challenges following the catastrophic impacts of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which made landfall on December 15, 2024. The cyclone caused heavy rainfall exceeding 250mm within 24 hours and winds up to 120km/h. By December 16, the storm had moved into Malawi, dissipating over Zimbabwe by December 17.
The cyclone has had a devastating toll on the population, with an estimated 453,971 people impacted as of December 24. Reports indicate 120 fatalities and 868 injuries, and over 70,000 homes have been damaged, alongside 250 schools and 52 health facilities destroyed. The ongoing damage assessments suggest these numbers may increase.
Cabo Delgado Province was particularly affected, including Mecufi, Metuge, and Chiure, with approximately 272,000 individuals impacted. A joint rapid assessment from December 18 revealed widespread destruction, with many communities left in ruins and significant infrastructure loss, particularly in Mecufi and Nangolo.
Similarly, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck on January 13, 2025, impacting Nampula Province with winds reaching 150km/h and heavy rainfall; Mossuril recorded 247mm. By January 27, at least 283,334 individuals were affected, including significant numbers of children and individuals with disabilities. Damage assessments revealed approximately 80,865 homes affected and destruction of numerous health facilities and schools.
The most severely impacted areas included Mossuril, Ilha de Mozambique, and Monapo, with thousands of residents displaced and infrastructure compromised. The situation remains critical, necessitating urgent humanitarian response initiatives to assist affected communities.
In summary, Mozambique is grappling with the catastrophic aftermath of Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, which have led to extensive damage and significant loss of life. Current estimates indicate that hundreds of thousands of individuals have been affected, requiring urgent humanitarian assistance. The destruction of homes, schools, and health facilities underscores the need for immediate and coordinated relief efforts to support the impacted populations.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
