Mozambique Faces Unprecedented Humanitarian Crisis Due to Recent Cyclones
Mozambique has experienced catastrophic effects from three major cyclones—Chido, Dikeledi, and Jude—between December 2024 and March 2025, leading to widespread displacement, severe infrastructure damage, and pressing health risks. Affected populations are in dire need with overwhelming humanitarian response required, particularly in the hard-hit provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula. The urgency for immediate aid and recovery measures is paramount as the situation continues to evolve.
The communities in Mozambique are experiencing severe hardships due to the catastrophic impacts of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which struck on December 15, 2024. This cyclone resulted in torrential rains exceeding 250 mm within a 24-hour period and winds reaching speeds of 120 km/h. The cyclone subsequently traversed into Malawi and dispersed over Zimbabwe by December 17, causing widespread destruction in its path.
The toll from Cyclone Chido has been significant, with the National Institute for Natural Disasters (INGD) reporting approximately 453,971 people affected as of December 24, 2024. The disaster has resulted in 120 fatalities and 868 injuries, while over 70,000 homes, 250 schools, and 52 health centers were destroyed or damaged. These figures may increase further as assessments continue.
In Cabo Delgado Province, areas such as Mecufi, Metuge, Chiure, and the capital Pemba have been profoundly impacted, affecting around 272,000 individuals. A multi-agency assessment team, supported by INGD and OCHA, documented the extent of the devastation on December 18, revealing that many communities have been rendered uninhabitable with high demolition rates, especially in Mecufi.
Cyclone Dikeledi struck southern Ilha de Mocambique in Nampula Province on January 13, 2025, and re-entered the Mozambique Channel. This cyclone produced winds at 150 km/h and heavy rainfalls, causing severe weather phenomena across several districts. As of January 27, an estimated 283,334 individuals were affected, with significant damage to infrastructure including 80,865 houses, 48 health facilities, and 221 schools.
Most of the devastation from Cyclone Dikeledi occurred in Mossuril, Ilha de Mozambique, and Nacala Porto. Additionally, the humanitarian response demanded immediate attention due to the high numbers of vulnerable populations, including children and persons with disabilities.
Tropical Cyclone Jude made landfall in Nampula Province on March 10, 2025, inflicting 120 km/h winds and substantial rainfall across multiple provinces. This cyclone exacerbated the pre-existing cholera outbreak that began shortly before its arrival, disrupting essential services and contaminating water supplies, which heightened health risks among the affected populations.
As of March 19, the total number of people affected by Cyclone Jude reached 390,000, with 16 reported fatalities. Information indicates that 88,000 houses, 81 health units, and countless schools were impacted. A detailed flood impact analysis conducted on March 15 revealed extensive flooding, affecting approximately 1,084,011 hectares and displacing over 436,000 individuals.
The humanitarian efforts have been instigated through the activation of the Mozambique Anticipatory Action Framework, enabling rapid funding disbursement and timely response. Much coordination is necessary as multiple sectors work to address both immediate and long-term recovery efforts throughout the northern region of Mozambique.
In summary, Mozambique is currently facing unprecedented challenges due to the impacts of Tropical Cyclones Chido, Dikeledi, and Jude. Millions of people are affected, misery is extensive, and the infrastructure has sustained substantial damage. The urgency for humanitarian assistance remains critical as recovery and rehabilitation efforts begin to unfold in the wake of these catastrophic events. Effective coordination among humanitarian partners is essential to address the immediate needs of the affected communities while also laying the groundwork for longer-term recovery.
Original Source: www.unocha.org
