Mozambique has been struck by three cyclones in three months, leading to significant destruction and displacement. Experts express concerns about the increasing frequency of such disasters, highlighting the challenges faced by vulnerable communities and the strain on aid organizations. The rising number of cyclones poses urgent questions regarding climate change and community preparedness.
In Mozambique, three cyclones have devastated the region within the span of three months, prompting concerns about the increasing frequency of such storms. These disasters have resulted in significant destruction and have displaced thousands, intensifying difficulties for already struggling communities and aid organizations.
Sebastien Langlade, the chief cyclone forecaster at the Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre, remarked on the severity of the cyclone situation, stating, “Mozambique is experiencing a truly bad series of cyclonic impacts.” The cyclone season, which typically lasts from November to April, began with Cyclone Chido in mid-December, causing at least 120 fatalities.
The impact continued with Cyclone Dikeledi in January, which resulted in five deaths, and Cyclone Jude, which recently whipped through the region, killing at least 16 and destroying over 40,000 homes. The United Nations reported that Cyclone Jude affected approximately 420,000 individuals across Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique.
Both Cyclones Jude and Dikeledi struck the same location in Nampula Province, compounding the challenges for local communities, as many had not yet recovered from previous storms. Naemi Heita, head of the Red Cross delegation in Maputo, noted the compounded tragedy faced by impacted communities.
Guy Taylor, UNICEF’s Mozambique spokesperson, highlighted the vulnerability of the affected populations, insisting that these communities are ill-equipped to manage such disasters. The continuing cyclone activity has strained the response capacity of international aid organizations, causing resource depletion after multiple storms. Heita stressed the necessity for enhanced preparedness given the increase in cyclone frequency and intensity.
Mozambique has endured a rise in cyclones with eight impactful storms recorded since 2019, a significant increase from the historical average of six to seven cyclones per decade. Langlade pointed out that this escalating trend is unprecedented, with a notable warming of ocean waters in the Mozambique Channel potentially contributing to this phenomenon.
Experts remain uncertain whether the observed changes are due to long-term fluctuations or climate change. Taylor emphasized the importance of preparedness, citing UNICEF’s initiative to construct resilient classrooms capable of withstanding cyclones, reinforcing the case for investing in infrastructure and resilience due to the recurring nature of these disasters.
The recent cluster of cyclones in Mozambique underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and enhancing disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions. With the increased frequency of cyclones posing significant threats to life and infrastructure, it is essential for governments and organizations to invest in measures that bolster resilience and adequately support affected communities amid these compounding challenges.
Original Source: www.france24.com
