Mozambique’s Framework for Cyclone Anticipatory Action and Early Response

The framework for anticipatory action and early response in Mozambique seeks to mitigate the effects of cyclones affecting millions since 2017. Key components include defined triggers for action, a coordinated action plan for efficient assistance across six provinces, and pre-arranged financing totaling $6 million. The initiative emphasizes collaborative learning to enhance future cyclone responses.

This document outlines the anticipatory action (AA) and early response (ER) framework for cyclones in Mozambique, detailing the pre-agreed action plan, triggers, and financing mechanisms. Mozambique frequently faces cyclones, particularly affecting low-lying coastal regions, impacting around 5 million people since 2017. The aim is to coordinate timely actions to assist those at risk in six provinces: Cabo Delgado, Nampula, Zambezia, Sofala, Inhambane, and Gaza, with pilot districts for AA implementation.

The framework was collaboratively established by the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, with involvement from the OCHA Mozambique, as well as the national technical working group focused on anticipatory action. The activation of financing and activities relies on three triggers: a readiness trigger (up to 120 hours before a cyclone’s landfall), an action trigger (between 72 and 6 hours before), and an observational trigger (up to 48 hours post-landfall).

The selected action triggers include potential overlaps of affected districts with forecasted cyclone winds, indicating a severe storm or rainfall levels exceeding specific thresholds. A significant aspect of the framework is the government-mandated cut-off time of 6 hours before landfall, ensuring the safety of personnel and communities. Thus, if a trigger occurs within this time, no actions will be taken.

The action plan encompasses several core activities focusing on risk communication, community engagement, preparation of temporary accommodation centers (TACs), provision of in-kind assistance, and access to essential services such as health and WASH. The execution of these activities is expected to occur within 2 to 4 weeks after a cyclone strikes, drawing on previous experiences and operational capacity to ensure effective implementation.

Financial backing is secured through the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), amounting to up to $6 million, earmarked for various sectors including Food Security, Health, and GBV. Additionally, the WFP has committed up to $979,000 for anticipatory actions in the upcoming season, with funding linked to distinct triggers.

The framework serves as a learning opportunity, with partners agreeing to conduct assessments post-activation to evaluate distribution effectiveness and extract valuable lessons. There is also a commitment to ongoing learning efforts to enhance future responses to cyclone events.

Mozambique is subjected to frequent cyclones, predominantly impacting coastal areas where a significant portion of the population resides. Historical data indicates that since 2000, the country experiences a major cyclone every two years on average, with intensifying storms and severe economic repercussions. The need for a structured framework for anticipatory action and early response has become paramount to mitigate human suffering and economic damages, especially since millions have already been affected by these natural disasters.

The anticipatory action and early response framework in Mozambique aims to establish a coordinated approach to address the impacts of cyclones effectively. By identifying triggers for response and incorporating guidelines for urgent action, the framework is designed to protect vulnerable populations in cyclone-affected provinces. Financial provisions and learning strategies further ensure that responses are not only timely but also adaptable to future challenges posed by natural hazards.

Original Source: reliefweb.int