Storm Chido has killed at least seven people in Malawi and affected over 30,000 others, according to officials. It caused significant damage, including destroyed roofs and injuries reported across the affected districts. The storm, which made landfall in Mozambique, also impacted tens of thousands in that country and the Comoros. Relief efforts are being organized to support the affected households as schools resume after a precautionary suspension.
In Malawi, Storm Chido has tragically claimed the lives of at least seven individuals and significantly impacted over 30,000 others, according to disaster officials. The preliminary assessment from Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs detailed that the cyclone uprooted roofs from schools, healthcare facilities, and residences. Notably, three fatalities occurred in Salima district, while Kasungu, Machinga, Blantyre, and Lilongwe districts each reported one death. Additionally, the department reported 16 injuries, further underscoring the storm’s devastating effects.
Tropical Cyclone Chido, which originated northeast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, made landfall on Sunday near Nacala, Mozambique, wreaking havoc along its path. A subsequent report from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs indicated that the storm also affected over 174,000 people in Mozambique and 64,000 in the Comoros archipelago, leading to the destruction of thousands of homes. As Chido’s remnants traversed Malawi on Monday, it transformed into a moderate tropical storm, bringing heavy rainfall and flooding across approximately 17 districts, particularly in the southern regions.
Lucy Mtilatila, the director of the Malawi Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, stated that the storm has now dissipated, adding, “Our eyes are on the Indian Ocean in case there will be another development. But so far, so good.” In response to the storm’s threats, the government had temporarily suspended school classes, but activities resumed after assessing safety. Chipiliro Khamula, the department spokesperson, noted that all search and rescue teams have been withdrawn from the areas previously deemed at-risk. The disaster agency is now working with other humanitarian organizations to provide crucial relief for affected households.
Storm Chido, a tropical cyclone, emerged northeast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean and made landfall near Mozambique, causing substantial destruction before moving into Malawi. In its wake, Malawi experienced significant rainfall and widespread flooding, prompting precautionary measures like the suspension of school classes. The ensuing assessments revealed the storm’s grave toll on both life and infrastructure within Malawi, Mozambique, and the Comoros. This incident highlights the growing challenge of climate change-related disasters in the region.
The impact of Storm Chido has been devastating, resulting in several fatalities and affecting tens of thousands of individuals in Malawi alone. The situation reflects the broader trend of tropical cyclones increasingly threatening communities in southern Africa. Collaborative relief efforts are now underway to assist those affected by this tragic event, demonstrating the urgent need for responsive disaster management approaches in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
