Mozambique Prepares for Impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido

Tropical Cyclone Chido is set to hit Pemba, Mozambique, on December 15 with expected winds over 120 km/h and rainfall up to 200mm. With 1.7 million people at risk, particularly in Cabo Delgado, the government has activated emergency response plans and warning systems to mitigate the impending disaster’s impact.

On December 13, 2024, Mozambique’s National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) issued a flash update regarding Tropical Cyclone Chido, which is forecasted to make landfall in Pemba (Cabo Delgado) on December 15 as an Intense Tropical Cyclone. The cyclone poses a significant threat, with expectations of heavy rainfall reaching up to 200mm within a 24-hour period and wind speeds surpassing 120 km/h. Approximately 1.7 million individuals are at risk, particularly in Cabo Delgado, where one million residents could be impacted by extreme winds.

Heavy rains and high winds are projected from December 15 to 17, affecting several northern provinces, including Cabo Delgado, Nampula, Niassa, Tete, and to a lesser extent, Zambezia. The Government has conducted assessments indicating that while river basins are currently within safe levels, some regions close to at-risk areas may reach warning thresholds. Urban flooding is a concern in Pemba, particularly in vulnerable neighborhoods, raising alarms alongside an ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula that could worsen.

In preparation, the government has declared an orange alert, activating provincial Emergency Operations Centers (COEs) in high-risk zones with plans for a red alert if conditions escalate. Warning systems are in effect, utilizing SMS, radio, and television to notify residents of the impending cyclone and recommend pre-evacuation measures. Moreover, the INGD has coordinated accommodations for displaced individuals and prepared essential supplies ahead of landfall.

As part of its emergency response, the Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) has activated its Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, consolidating resources and coordinating with various humanitarian partners. The government is initiating anticipatory action protocols in specific districts, ensuring readiness for immediate assistance. The Humanitarian Coordinator is in communication with regional organizations and headquarters to mobilize further support, emphasizing a coordinated response to the anticipated disaster.

Tropical Cyclone Chido is the latest intense weather event affecting Mozambique, with its impact magnified by the country’s geographical location and vulnerabilities. The cyclone is compared to previous cyclones like Gombe and Freddy, which have caused significant damage in recent years. The government’s preparedness is crucial, given the current cholera outbreak in Nampula, and effective communication strategies are paramount for ensuring public safety.

Tropical Cyclone Chido presents a serious threat to Mozambique, particularly in the Cabo Delgado region, affecting millions and inducing severe weather conditions. The government’s prompt emergency response strategies, including alerts and resource prepositioning, aim to mitigate the cyclone’s impact. Continued monitoring and community alert systems are essential in ensuring public safety and addressing humanitarian needs amid the ongoing challenges posed by climate-related disasters.

Original Source: www.unocha.org