Cyclone Chido is headed toward the Indian Ocean islands of Comoros, Madagascar, and Mayotte, prompting closures and red alert warnings. Mozambique has declared a red alert as well, with estimates suggesting that over 2.5 million people may be impacted. The storm is expected to bring significant winds and heavy rain, raising concerns over flooding and health risks due to potential outbreaks of diseases like cholera, dengue, and malaria.
The islands of Comoros, Madagascar, and Mayotte in the Indian Ocean are preparing for the approaching Cyclone Chido, which is forecasted to impact Africa’s east coast imminently. Authorities in Comoros have closed schools in anticipation of the cyclone, expected to make landfall early Saturday after passing the northern tip of Madagascar. The French territory of Mayotte is under red alert, indicating a severe threat from the storm.
Mozambique has also declared a red alert for its northern provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula, with predictions that over 2.5 million individuals could be affected by Cyclone Chido on the African mainland. The National Emergency Operations Center in Mozambique estimates wind speeds could reach up to 200 kilometers per hour (approximately 124 miles per hour), heightening concerns for those in vulnerable areas.
Alerts have been disseminated throughout Madagascar using cell phone notifications and radio broadcasts, urging residents to heed precautions. The region of Diana in Madagascar is particularly at risk, with nearly 20,000 people likely to need assistance.
To mitigate potential damage, Madagascar has mobilized resources such as food and emergency supplies. Additionally, the French government is deploying emergency personnel and equipment to Mayotte, including search dogs and rescue specialists, to prepare for the storm’s impact.
The period from December to March constitutes the cyclone season in this region, which has been subjected to increasingly severe storms attributed to climate change. Cyclones such as Idai in 2019 and Freddy last year have raised alarms about the increasing frequency and severity of these weather events, which pose profound threats to public health and safety.
The Indian Ocean region experiences a seasonal cycle of intense tropical storms from December through March. Recent years have seen this area severely impacted by cyclones, attributed to changing climate conditions. Tropical cyclones pose a significant risk to populated areas, leading not only to immediate hazards of high winds and flooding but also to longer-term health crises stemming from waterborne diseases that may emerge after such disasters. Recent cyclones, including Idai and Freddy, have resulted in significant loss of life and extensive property damage across several countries, leading to heightened preparations and alerts as new storms approach.
In conclusion, as Cyclone Chido approaches, Comoros, Madagascar, and Mayotte are engaging in proactive measures to safeguard lives and minimize damage. With alerts issued and emergency resources being mobilized, these regions are preparing for what could be a significant humanitarian crisis, recalling the devastating impacts of past cyclones. The situation remains fluid as authorities continue to monitor the cyclone’s path and prepare for possible landfall, particularly in Mozambique, which may face extensive disruptions and dangers as a result of this storm.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
