Mozambique faces a humanitarian crisis due to Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, impacting over 737,000 individuals combined. Cyclone Chido caused severe destruction in December 2024, while Cyclone Dikeledi struck in January 2025. Hundreds of fatalities and extensive property damage have necessitated a rapid humanitarian appeal to address the urgent needs of the affected populations.
Communities in Mozambique are currently reeling from the catastrophic impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which struck on December 15, 2024. The cyclone unleashed torrential rainfall exceeding 250 mm within 24 hours and wind gusts reaching 120 km/h. After making landfall in Mozambique, Cyclone Chido progressed into Malawi and dissipated in Zimbabwe by December 17.
The devastation has been extensive, with the National Institute for Natural Disasters (INGD) estimating that as of December 24, 2024, approximately 453,971 individuals have been affected. The cyclone resulted in 120 fatalities and 868 injuries, while over 70,000 homes, 250 schools, and 52 healthcare centers have been destroyed or severely damaged. These numbers are expected to increase as further assessments are conducted.
The number of people affected has exceeded the 350,000 threshold that necessitates a Flash Appeal for humanitarian assistance. The ongoing challenges of devastation and disrupted communication networks have complicated both situational awareness and the mobilization of response efforts. Significant impacts have been reported in Cabo Delgado Province, particularly in the districts of Mecufi, Metuge, and Chiure, affecting an estimated 272,000 people.
In a joint assessment mission led by the INGD with OCHA support on December 18, widespread destruction was observed, with entire communities devastated. In Mecufi, nearly all homes were obliterated, illustrating the cyclone’s severe impact on the region.
Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi subsequently made landfall in Nampula Province on January 13, 2025. The cyclone re-emerged into the Mozambique Channel after causing significant weather disturbances. High precipitation levels were recorded, with Mossuril experiencing 247 mm of rainfall on January 14, alongside wind speeds upwards of 150 km/h.
As of January 27, following initial assessments by IOM DTM and INGD, the number of individuals impacted by Dikeledi reached 283,334. This includes 142,598 children, 74,778 women, and 65,958 men. Approximately 80,865 homes were damaged, affecting 48 health facilities, 221 schools, and substantial agricultural areas.
The hardest hit districts include Mossuril, Ilha de Mozambique, and Monapo, highlighting the broad impact of Cyclone Dikeledi across affected areas. The humanitarian situation remains dire, necessitating urgent support and intervention to address the needs of those affected.
In summary, Mozambique is experiencing a humanitarian crisis following the devastating impacts of Tropical Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi. With hundreds of thousands affected, significant loss of life, and extensive damage to infrastructure, urgent assistance is required. As assessments continue, the need for a coordinated response and relief efforts remains critical in restoring the impacted communities.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
