Mozambique is facing severe crises due to Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi. Chido, which made landfall on December 15, 2024, impacted over 453,000 individuals, causing significant fatalities and damage. Dikeledi followed on January 13, affecting 283,334 people with devastating weather conditions. Both cyclones have led to widespread destruction of housing, schools, and health facilities in numerous provinces, necessitating urgent humanitarian responses.
Mozambique is grappling with the catastrophic aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which made landfall on December 15, 2024. The cyclone unleashed torrential rains exceeding 250 mm within 24 hours and winds reaching 120 km/h, significantly affecting communities. After moving to Malawi and dissipating in Zimbabwe, the storm left approximately 453,971 people impacted, with tragic reports of 120 fatalities and 868 injuries. Current assessments indicate more than 70,000 houses destroyed, along with substantial damage to schools and health facilities.
The situation in Cabo Delgado Province is particularly dire, with the districts of Mecufi, Metuge, Chiure, and Pemba being severely impacted. An estimated 272,000 individuals have been affected, prompting the initiation of a Flash Appeal due to the number of impacted individuals surpassing 350,000. Continued connectivity challenges hinder response efforts and situational awareness.
In December, a joint multi-agency assessment mission (MIRA) revealed overwhelming devastation, particularly in Mecufi, where nearly all homes were destroyed. Other areas like Nangolo also report near-total obliteration. This highlights the severe humanitarian crisis resulting from Cyclone Chido.
Subsequently, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi struck on January 13, 2025, impacting Nampula province with high winds and rainfall. Mossuril recorded the highest precipitation at 247 mm, contributing to wind speeds of 150 km/h, with gusts peaking at 180 km/h. The cyclone has affected 283,334 people, including a significant number of children, women, and individuals with disabilities.
The destruction caused by Cyclone Dikeledi includes an estimated 80,865 damaged houses and extensive damage to health facilities, schools, and agricultural areas. The districts of Mossuril, Ilha de Mozambique, and Monapo reported the most significant impacts. These natural disasters have collectively created an urgent need for humanitarian assistance across Mozambique.
The report underscores the devastating impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido and Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi on Mozambique, leading to significant humanitarian needs. With hundreds of thousands affected and extensive infrastructure damage, the necessity for coordinated relief efforts is paramount. The situation demands immediate attention to support recovery and restoration of essential services in the affected communities.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
