Mozambican authorities have activated early cyclone preparedness measures as Tropical Storm Gezani moves through the Mozambique Channel, with forecasts indicating it could intensify into a cyclone by Thursday.
The alert covers several central and southern provinces, including Sofala, Inhambane and Gaza where heavy rains, strong winds and flooding are expected.
In a joint statement issued late Tuesday, the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management (INGD) and the National Emergency Operations Centre (CENOE) urged residents in at‑risk districts to reinforce their homes, prepare survival kits and follow updates from local authorities.
Hydrometeorological projections show that coastal river basins such as Mutamba, Save and Limpopo face a high risk of flooding while the Incomati and Umbelúzi basins are under moderate alert.
Authorities have advised communities to secure roofs, doors and windows, store essential documents and food in safe locations and identify nearby shelters.
Small boats have been ordered ashore, and all coastal navigation and fishing activities in Inhambane province will be suspended from Wednesday due to expected rough seas.
Local disaster committees have been instructed to assist with relocations where necessary, prioritising vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with disabilities.
Accommodation centres are being prepared to ensure access to water, sanitation and basic services.
The National Directorate for Water Resources Management has warned that up to one million people could be affected if Gezani strengthens further.
Mozambique is among the world’s most cyclone‑prone countries, with storms such as Idai (2019), Kenneth (2019) and Freddy (2023) causing widespread devastation in recent years.
Warm ocean temperatures in the southwest Indian Ocean and fragile coastal infrastructure make the country particularly vulnerable to severe weather events.
Since the start of the rainy season in October, Mozambique has recorded 202 deaths, 291 injuries and more than 850,000 people affected by floods and storms, according to INGD.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and monitor official warnings as Gezani approaches.
JN/APA