Mozambique - Cyclone Tropical Dikeledi: Flash Update #1 (as of 13 January 2025) [EN/PT]

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• Mozambique is facing a new weather system as Tropical Storm Dikeledi has re-intensified into a tropical cyclone, and it is currently moving across Nampula and will weaken over land. It is expected to re-enter the Mozambique Channel near Angoche by 14 January, potentially regaining strength to a cyclone or intense cyclone.
• The National Meteorology Institute (INAM) indicates that strong winds and heavy rainfall (up to 200 mm/24h) are expected to impact coastal districts, including Mossuril, Angoche, and Mogincual, Liupo and Angoche in Nampula province.
• Districts in Zambezia province will also be affected.
• According to the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) some 255,310 people are projected to be affected by Cyclone Dikeledi, of whom 98,000 are in high-risk areas.
• INGD has activated the government’s anticipatory action protocols in Angoche and Mongicual districts; as such preparedness efforts are ongoing, including the dissemination of advisories to at risk communities, preventive evacuation and pre-deployment of staff to support the local coordination.
• Humanitarian partners are on alert ready to assist should support be required. However, the capacity is stretched as Dikeledi is the second cyclone to hit Mozambique in a month.

SITUATION OVERVIEW

Mozambique is facing a new weather system as Tropical Storm Dikeledi has re-intensified into a tropical cyclone, and it is currently moving across Nampula province. The system is expected to weaken as it moves over land. However, Dikeledi is forecast to re-enter the warm waters of the Mozambique Channel near Angoche district on 14 January. Weather forecasts indicate that favorable conditions in the Mozambique channel could allow the system to re-intensify into a tropical cyclone, or even an intense cyclone, between January 14 and 15 as it moves closer to Madagascar.

The provinces of Nampula, Cabo Delgado, and Zambezia are currently experiencing severe weather conditions, particularly near the landfall zone. Heavy torrential rainfall is affecting these areas, with Nampula being hit the hardest. In addition, destructive winds are sweeping through the region, accompanied by hazardous sea conditions, especially between Ilha de Moçambique and northern Zambezia.

Nampula is projected to be the most affected province, with an estimated 255,310 people at risk, including 98,000 in high-risk zones who may require immediate assistance, according to the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD). Cyclone Dikeledi, with heavy rains of up to 200 mm in 24 hours and winds reaching 120 km/h, is comparable in intensity to Cyclone Chido but is expected to have a shorter duration and limited impact on coastal districts. Despite this, Dikeledi poses a significant risk of flooding in rivers and basins, as well as damage to roads and electricity infrastructure. At least 491 schools and 62 health facilities are at risk of destruction.

The National Meteorology Institute (INAM) indicates that strong winds and heavy rainfall (up to 200 mm/24h) are expected to impact coastal districts, including Mossuril, Angoche, and Mogincual, Liupo and Angoche in Nampula province.