Mozambique: Tropical storm Desmond made landfall January 22 /update 1

Event

Tropical Storm Desmond made landfall on Tuesday, January 22, bringing hazardous weather conditions to eastern Mozambique. Winds and heavy rain have particularly affected the town of Beira, with 277 mm of rain reported, along with associated flooding and related tranpsortation disruptions. Further flooding are expected in central Mozambique as well as in southern Malawi in the next 24 hours, with 200 mm of rain forecasted. Associated transportation disruptions will likely continue to be reported in the coming hours.

Context

The cyclone season in Mozambique typically runs from November to April, with coastal areas of the country most severely affected.

Advice

Individuals present in the affected areas of Mozambique are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm travel reservations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.