Cyclone Freddy, which is expected to make landfall in Mozambique’s coastal provinces this week, is expected to affect more than 600,000 people, according to authorities.
The Zambezi valley, central regions, and southern Inhambane province are considered the most vulnerable.
According to Agostinho Vilanculos, head of the water resources department, at least 100,000 people will require state assistance if the cyclone hits at full strength.
He described the tropical storm as an intense weather system with wind gusts ranging from 280km (174 miles) to 290km per hour at a National Centre for Emergency Operations meeting.
Residents in the coastal city of Beira have fortified their homes with sandbags, placed metal sheets on windows, and pruned trees in their backyards.
They have also stocked up on food and water, as well as candles and lanterns.
