The recent Cyclone Idai’s devastating impact on the port city of Beira in Mozambique brings back the traumatic memories of past severe cyclones, including Eline in 2000. This deadly storm resulted in the loss of approximately 350 lives and rendered 650,000 people homeless across the region. As per the records of the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR), Mozambique ranks third among African nations most vulnerable to extreme weather conditions. The naming of the cyclone was done by Zimbabwe.
Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR)
Launched in September 2006, the GFDRR is a global partnership supported by the World Bank, UN agencies and bilateral donors; it is headquartered in Washington, DC. The fundamental missions of GFDRR include mainstreaming disaster reduction and climate adaptation in the development strategies of countries, fostering global and regional cooperation, and strengthening links among different stakeholders within the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR) framework.
GFDRR plays a crucial role in realizing the vision of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction by assisting countries in integrating disaster risk management and climate change adaptation into their development strategies and investment programs. It also helps countries recover rapidly and effectively after disasters strike.
Tropical Cyclone – An Overview
A tropical cyclone is characterised by the formation of an extremely low-pressure system accompanied by high-speed winds spiralling around the centre. Various factors such as wind speed, wind direction, temperature and humidity are critical to the development of cyclones.
Before clouds form, water absorbs heat from the atmosphere to convert into vapour. When water vapour condenses back into liquid form as rain, this heat is released back into the atmosphere. The released heat warms the surrounding air, causing it to rise and leading to a drop in pressure. As a result, more air is drawn to the centre of the storm, perpetuating the cycle.
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Most at Risk Country in Africa | Mozambique ranks third |
| Previous devastating cyclone | Eline in 2000 (350 deaths and 650,000 displaced) |
| GFDRR Establishment | September 2006 |
| GFDRR’s Role | Mainstreaming disaster reduction and enforcing climate change adaptation |
The Energy Source of Hurricanes
Notably, hurricanes derive their immense energy from heated seawater. However, they can be weakened and interrupted by the presence of upper-level winds, which disrupt the storm circulation and force it to lose its strength.
In conclusion, nations should invest significantly in research and strategies to mitigate the deadly impacts of cyclones and ensure prompt recovery post-disaster. Preventive measures could include climate adaptation initiatives, better infrastructure, public awareness campaigns and well-prepared emergency response teams.
