Concerns Raised Over Increasing Cyclone Frequency in Mozambique

Mozambique is facing an unprecedented cluster of three cyclones within three months, raising concerns over the increasing frequency of these disasters. Aid organizations are under pressure as thousands are affected, with significant destruction of homes. Experts warn of the potential long-term impacts of climate change on cyclone patterns, necessitating improved preparedness and adaptation strategies in the region.

Mozambique has recently been battered by three cyclones within a three-month period, raising concerns among experts regarding the potential frequency of such disasters in this impoverished region. The cyclones have displaced thousands and caused significant devastation, prompting questions about the emerging norm of frequent cyclonic events.

The recent storms have compounded challenges for aid organizations trying to assist the affected populations, where repeated disasters have left tens of thousands homeless. According to Sebastien Langlade, chief cyclone forecaster at the Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre, Mozambique is experiencing exceptionally severe cyclonic impacts. The cyclone season began with Cyclone Chido in mid-December, which led to substantial casualties and destruction in the French territory of Mayotte.

Subsequent cyclones, Dikeledi and Jude, followed, with Jude reporting wind gusts of up to 195 kilometers per hour. These events killed a number of individuals and severely impacted around 420,000 people across Mozambique, Madagascar, and Malawi. Notably, Cyclones Jude and Dikeledi made landfall at nearly the same location, exacerbating the situation for communities already struggling from Chido’s aftermath.

Naemi Heita, head of the Red Cross and Red Crescent delegation in Maputo, emphasized the urgency of the situation, portraying it as a continuous tragedy for affected communities without sufficient recovery time. UNICEF’s representative, Guy Taylor, highlighted that the region’s vulnerable populations are ill-equipped to face such storms, and the cumulative impact creates immense pressure on resources.

The increased frequency of cyclones is alarming; since 2019, Mozambique has encountered eight cyclones, a significant rise from the historical average of cyclones and tropical storms. Meteorologist Langlade noted that the warming waters in the Mozambique Channel may be contributing to this pattern. While the recent cyclones have caused fewer fatalities than those in the past, their increased frequency poses a growing concern.

Experts remain uncertain whether these trends are part of a natural cycle or indicative of climate change, calling for urgent adaptation measures. UNICEF has taken proactive steps by constructing resilient classrooms in Mozambique. Taylor argues that preparedness is a vital investment for saving lives and maintaining infrastructure amidst recurrent disasters.

The recent cluster of cyclones in Mozambique highlights the urgent need for attention and action regarding climate-related disasters. As the frequency of such events seems to be increasing, it is crucial for aid organizations and governments to enhance preparedness efforts and invest in resilient infrastructure. The situation calls for an evaluation of the factors contributing to this trend, promoting long-term strategies that can effectively mitigate future impacts on vulnerable communities.

Original Source: www.france24.com