Tropical Cyclone Chido is anticipated to hit Pemba, Mozambique, early on December 15, 2024, impacting approximately 1.7 million individuals with heavy rain and winds up to 120 km/h. Authorities are prepositioning resources and activating emergency plans to safeguard vulnerable communities from the cyclone’s expected damage, which may worsen the ongoing cholera outbreak in the region.
Tropical Cyclone Chido is projected to make landfall in Pemba, Cabo Delgado, early on December 15, 2024, bringing heavy rainfall of up to 200mm in 24 hours and wind speeds reaching 120 km/h. The cyclone poses a significant risk to approximately 1.7 million people, particularly in Cabo Delgado, where around 1 million individuals are expected to experience winds exceeding 120 km/h. In response, the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) has begun coordinating the prepositioning of stocks and personnel to prepare for potential impacts. The Emergency Preparedness and Response (ERP) Plan has been activated to reinforce readiness measures across vulnerable provinces such as Nampula, Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia.
In the northern provinces of Mozambique, Cyclone Chido is anticipated to cause extensive damage. Following its landfall, areas are expected to experience sustained heavy rains and strong winds. Significant concerns have arisen due to the storm’s potential to exacerbate the ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula, where there have been 283 reported cases and 21 fatalities as of December 11, 2024. Pemba City faces heightened risks of urban flooding, especially in neighborhoods such as Bairro Cariaco and Alto Chuiba. As a precautionary measure, early warning systems have been activated to disseminate evacuation orders via various communication channels.
The government has issued an orange alert, mobilizing provincial Centres for Operational Emergencies (COEs) in areas at heightened risk of cyclone impact. If Cyclone Chido’s effects prove severe, a red alert may be declared. The INGD has initiated plans for accommodation centers to support those affected by the cyclone and has also implemented Anticipatory Action protocols in select districts. Humanitarian efforts are being harmonized through coordination with the Area Humanitarian Country Team (AHCT) to ensure adequate response capabilities are in place in anticipation of the storm’s effects.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has emerged as a serious weather threat to Mozambique, with expected landfall in the northern region close to Pemba. The cyclone’s intensity closely resembles previous storms, which have caused significant devastation in the past, primarily affecting the same geographical areas. As the situation unfolds, the government’s swift action and preparedness measures aim to mitigate the impacts of the cyclone and protect vulnerable populations who are at risk of not only wind damage but also flooding and health crises due to the ongoing cholera outbreak.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido presents a major threat to Mozambique’s northern regions, particularly Cabo Delgado, with severe weather conditions forecasted for December 15, 2024. The government and various agencies are prioritizing disaster preparedness and response, activating alerts and early warning systems, and coordinating efforts to protect the population. The community’s safety is of utmost significance, with concerted actions being taken to alleviate the potential impact of the cyclone and address any health concerns arising from the disaster.
Original Source: www.unocha.org
