Mozambique Prepares for Tropical Cyclone Chido: Flash Update

On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido is set to impact Pemba, Mozambique, with heavy rains and winds, posing a threat to 1.7 million people. The government and humanitarian groups are executing preparedness strategies to safeguard vulnerable populations and mitigate adverse effects. Early warning systems have been activated to ensure public safety ahead of the cyclone’s landfall.

Tropical Cyclone Chido is poised to make landfall in Pemba, Cabo Delgado, on December 15, 2024, as an Intense Tropical Cyclone. The cyclone is predicted to bring heavy rainfall, with accumulations reaching up to 200mm in 24 hours, accompanied by wind speeds of up to 120 km/h. Approximately 1.7 million individuals are at risk, including one million in Cabo Delgado who may face severe wind impacts. The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) is actively preparing resources and coordinating staff deployment in vulnerable regions. The Humanitarian Coordination Team (HCT) has initiated its Emergency Preparedness and Response (ERP) Plan, emphasizing readiness and preemptive actions.

Tropical Cyclones are natural disasters characterized by strong wind patterns and intense rainfall, often causing significant socio-economic impacts. Mozambique has faced several severe cyclones in recent years, prompting government and international bodies to improve their disaster response capabilities. The forecast for Cyclone Chido, comparable to previous cyclones such as Gombe and Freddy, underscores the need for effective emergency preparedness measures given the region’s vulnerability to flooding and disease outbreaks, notably cholera, which is present in the area.

In summary, Mozambique is bracing for the impact of Cyclone Chido, with significant rainfall and strong winds expected to affect millions of residents, particularly in Cabo Delgado. The government and humanitarian organizations are mobilizing resources and implementing preparedness measures to mitigate the effects of the cyclone. As the situation develops, continued vigilance and responsive action will be essential to address the potential challenges posed by this natural disaster.

Original Source: reliefweb.int