23 Jan 2022 | 03:15 PM UTC
Mozambique Channel: Tropical Depression Seven forms, tracking westwards in Mozambique Channel Jan. 23
Tropical Depression Seven forms, tracking westwards in Mozambique Channel Jan. 23. Landfall over Nampula Province, Mozambique, Jan. 24.
Event
Tropical Depression Seven has formed and is tracking westwards in the Mozambique Channel Jan. 23. As of 17:00 CAT, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 393 km (244 miles) east-southeast of Nacala, Nampula Province, Mozambique. Forecast models indicate the system will strengthen as tracks westward toward the coast of northern Mozambique through Jan. 24. Landfall is likely over Mossuril District, Nampula Province the morning of Jan. 24. The system is forecast to dissipate over far southwestern Niassa province, near the border with Malawi, early Jan. 25. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast, and changes could occur in the coming days.
Officials at the Mozambique National Institute of Meteorology have warned of heavy rainfall, with local totals of up to 10cm (4 inches), and high winds in the provinces of Nampula, Zambezia and Sofala. Authorities will likely issue new warnings or update existing advisories throughout the system's progression in the coming days.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible if weather conditions prove hazardous.
The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions and render some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports, such as Nampula Airport (APL), and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Exposure to raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters poses a serious health threat.
Advice
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical storm conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
