Mozambique Endures Severe Impact from Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi

Mozambique is grappling with the consequences of Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, which struck in December 2024 and January 2025, respectively. Cyclone Chido affected approximately 453,971 individuals, causing extensive damage to homes and community infrastructure. Cyclone Dikeledi impacted an additional 283,334 individuals, with significant damage to residential areas, schools, health facilities, and agriculture. Recovery efforts are ongoing as assessments continue to reveal the scale of destruction.

In February 2025, Mozambique faces the aftermath of devastating Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi. Cyclone Chido struck on December 15, 2024, unleashing over 250 mm of rain and winds reaching 120 km/h, resulting in severe destruction across affected communities. By late December, 453,971 individuals were reported impacted, with significant damage to infrastructure including 70,000 homes and numerous schools and health centers.

Cyclone Dikeledi followed shortly after, making landfall on January 13, 2025. It brought intense rainfall, with Mossuril recording 247 mm on January 14 and winds of 150 km/h, further exacerbating the situation. As of January 27, 283,334 people were reported affected, with considerable destruction to residential areas, health facilities, and agricultural land.

Among those impacted by Cyclone Dikeledi, approximately 50 percent are children, highlighting the cyclone’s significant toll on vulnerable populations. The most affected districts include Mossuril and Ilha de Mozambique, with tens of thousands suffering damages and displacement.

Joint assessments by the National Institute for Natural Disasters and humanitarian partners have revealed extensive devastation in both storm-affected regions, complicating response efforts amid connectivity challenges. As assessments continue, it is crucial to monitor and address the increasingly desperate needs of the affected communities.

Both Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi have caused catastrophic damage in Mozambique, impacting hundreds of thousands of residents and decimating essential infrastructure. The humanitarian response is critical as the needs of the affected populations grow, necessitating urgent support and attention from international organizations and local authorities to facilitate recovery efforts. Continued assessments and effective communication are essential to ensure the timely delivery of aid to those in distress.

Original Source: reliefweb.int