Tropical Cyclone Chido is set to impact northern Mozambique, specifically Pemba, starting December 15, 2024. The cyclone is expected to bring heavy rains, strong winds, and pose severe risks to approximately 1.7 million people. Areas at risk for flooding have been identified, and there are concerns regarding an ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula worsening due to the cyclone.
Tropical Cyclone Chido is poised to strike Pemba on Sunday, December 15, 2024, classified as an intense tropical cyclone. Forecasts predict significant impacts across northern Mozambique, notably in the Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces, with potential effects also in Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia to a lesser degree. Residents can expect heavy rainfall, reaching up to 200mm within 24 hours, and winds of up to 120 km/h from December 15 to 17. This cyclone is comparable in intensity to previous storms, including Tropical Cyclones Gombe and Freddy.
The World Food Programme’s Disaster Analysis and Mapping system indicates that approximately 1.7 million individuals are at risk from Tropical Cyclone Chido, with over one million people in Cabo Delgado facing winds exceeding 120 km/h. In light of these threats, the Technical Council for Disaster Management convened in Maputo on December 12, reporting that river basins remain below alert levels, though some near affected regions could rise.
Pemba City is particularly vulnerable to urban flooding, specifically in areas such as Bairro Cariaco, Alto Chuiba, Eduardo Mondlane, Natite, Ingonane, Paquetequete, and Carioca. Furthermore, there are concerns that the already existing cholera outbreak in Nampula, with 283 reported cases and 21 fatalities as of December 11, may worsen due to the cyclone’s impact. The situation underscores the urgent need for preparedness and response as the storm approaches.
As Tropical Cyclone Chido approaches, it brings severe weather conditions consistent with powerful cyclones that have affected Mozambique in past years. The storm is expected to make landfall in Pemba, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds that could have extensive consequences. The regions identified as vulnerable include several provinces, particularly Cabo Delgado, which has historically faced climatic disasters. Understanding the storm’s potential impact is crucial for disaster management and response strategies.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido presents a significant threat to northern Mozambique, with expectations of heavy rainfall and howling winds leading to potential flooding and exacerbation of health crises, such as the ongoing choleral outbreak. Immediate action and efficient disaster management are essential to mitigate the risks faced by the 1.7 million vulnerable individuals in the cyclone’s path. Continuous monitoring and readiness to act are imperative as the storm approaches landfall.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
