Cyclone Chido Threatens Mozambique's North

Pemba, Mozambique – A powerful storm is brewing in the Indian Ocean, threatening to unleash its fury upon Mozambique's northern coastline. Cyclone Chido, packing winds of up to 120 kilometers per hour, is expected to make landfall near the city of Pemba early Sunday morning. 

The storm's path has raised concerns among residents and officials alike, as Chido's projected intensity mirrors the devastating cyclones Gombe and Freddy that struck the region in recent years. Over a million people in the Cabo Delgado province are bracing for the impact, while heavy rains and strong winds are forecast to affect a wider swathe of northern Mozambique, including Nampula, Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia.

The National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) has issued an orange alert, urging residents in vulnerable areas to prepare for potential evacuations and take precautions to protect themselves and their property. Early warning systems have been activated, and authorities are working to ensure that shelters and emergency supplies are ready.

The humanitarian community is also on high alert, with organizations pre-positioning aid and coordinating response efforts. The ongoing cholera outbreak in Nampula adds another layer of complexity to the situation, raising concerns about the potential spread of the disease in the aftermath of the cyclone.

As Chido continues its westward trajectory, the people of northern Mozambique await its arrival with a mixture of anxiety and apprehension. The memory of past cyclones remains fresh, and the hope is that the impact of Chido will be minimized through preparedness and a swift and effective response.