Mozambique’s Response to Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi: Urgent Humanitarian Needs

Mozambique has been significantly impacted by Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, affecting over 737,000 individuals. The UNHCR has reached 30,000 people, with an urgent need for US$ 7,991,000 to assist an additional 362,000. The cyclones coincided with the annual rainy season and have worsened the plight of many already vulnerable communities, particularly internally displaced persons.

As of January 30, 2025, Mozambique faces significant challenges following the impact of Cyclone Chido, which struck on December 15, 2024, and Cyclone Dikeledi, which made landfall on January 13, 2025. Affected populations include 737,305 individuals, with the UNHCR having reached 30,000 individuals through its interventions. To assist an additional 362,000 affected individuals, a funding requirement of US$ 7,991,000 has been identified.

Cyclone Chido made landfall south of Pemba, delivering destructive winds of up to 80 kilometers per hour and torrential rain exceeding 250 mm in 24 hours. This Category 4 storm initiated Mozambique’s annual rainy season and is part of a concerning pattern with increased cyclone activity and flooding. Following Chido, Cyclone Dikeledi affected over 283,000 people in Nampula, illustrating the ongoing threat of extreme weather events this season, which necessitates continued preparedness.

Government reports indicate that Cyclone Chido alone has impacted over 453,000 individuals, particularly in Cabo Delgado and Nampula, where 272,832 and 175,169 people were affected, respectively. Many of the individuals in these regions are internally displaced persons (IDPs) already facing challenges due to previous conflicts. The compounded impact of both climatic and conflict-related issues presents severe obstacles for recovery in these communities.

The situation in Mozambique has escalated due to the effects of two cyclones, which coincided with the onset of the annual rainy season. The nation, particularly its northern coastal provinces, has historically experienced heightened cyclone activity during this time, creating vulnerabilities for its populations, especially for those already displaced by conflict. Ongoing risks suggest that further weather challenges may occur, emphasizing the need for urgent humanitarian intervention and preparedness measures.

In summary, Mozambique continues to grapple with the devastating impacts of Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, which have collectively affected nearly 1 million individuals. The pressing need for humanitarian aid emphasizes the urgency of financial support to reach those in need, particularly for the internally displaced populations. It remains critical for local and international actors to foster resilience and ensure that preparedness efforts are sustained to address future weather-related challenges.

Original Source: reliefweb.int