Tropical Cyclone Chido is expected to hit Pemba, Mozambique, on 15 December with severe rainfall and winds reaching up to 120 km/h, affecting 1.7 million people. Preparations include emergency alerts and resource prepositioning by the government and humanitarian agencies to mitigate impact, especially in Cabo Delgado where urban flooding is a concern.
Tropical Cyclone Chido is anticipated to impact the region of Pemba in Cabo Delgado as it makes landfall on 15 December, classified as an Intense Tropical Cyclone. The cyclone is forecasted to produce heavy rainfall, reaching up to 200mm within a 24-hour period, and winds gusting up to 120 km/h. Approximately 1.7 million individuals, particularly in Cabo Delgado, are at risk of experiencing severe weather conditions similar to those seen during Cyclones Gombe and Freddy in previous years.
In preparations for Cyclone Chido, the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) has begun the prepositioning of essential supplies while organizing the deployment of personnel to critical areas. The Emergency Preparedness and Response (ERP) Plan of the Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) has also been activated, emphasizing readiness and prompt action in vulnerable regions. While current river basin levels are reported to be below warning thresholds, localized flooding concerns arise for specific areas in Pemba City, including Bairro Cariaco and Alto Chuiba, as well as potential exacerbation of the ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula due to the impending cyclone.
A government-sanctioned orange alert is in effect, with local Emergency Operation Centres poised for activation, depending on the cyclone’s severity. Early warning systems have been mobilized to mitigate risks, providing crucial information through various media to individuals in at-risk areas, advising on evacuation procedures. INGD has developed accommodation plans for impacted populations, while the Technical Council for Disaster Management has initiated anticipatory actions in districts of Nampula. Resources are being consolidated and assessed across humanitarian agencies to ensure a coordinated and effective response to the needs of affected communities.
With the potential for further mobilization of international support, stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation as it evolves. The collaboration of various humanitarian entities is pivotal in aiming to alleviate the impacts stemming from this intense meteorological event, underscoring the importance of preparedness and community resilience in disaster scenarios.
Cyclones frequently affect Mozambique, especially during the wet season, leading to significant humanitarian challenges. Tropical Cyclones Gombe and Freddy in recent years demonstrated the devastating effects that severe weather can have on the population, infrastructure, and public health, sapping resources and complicating recovery efforts. Cyclone Chido’s imminent arrival poses a considerable threat, especially in Cabo Delgado, where millions are exposed to high winds and torrential rain. Preparedness strategies, timely warnings, and mobilization of disaster response units are crucial in protecting vulnerable communities.
In summary, Cyclone Chido is set to bring intense weather conditions to Mozambique, compelling immediate action from local authorities and humanitarian organizations. Preparation measures, including the establishment of emergency alerts and resource allocation, are crucial to mitigate the cyclone’s anticipated impacts on communities. With the risk of urban flooding and health crises, effective coordination is essential to safeguard the lives of millions at risk. Stakeholders must remain vigilant and responsive to evolving conditions as the crisis unfolds.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
