Tropical Cyclone Chido is projected to affect about 2.5 million people in Southern Africa, with intense winds and heavy rainfall expected to lead to flooding and mudslides. The cyclone has already caused damage in the Comoros, with assessments and emergency preparations underway in Mozambique and Malawi. Authorities continue to issue warnings and mobilize relief efforts as Chido approaches landfall in Mozambique on 15 December.
As of 14 December 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has significantly impacted regions of Southern Africa, particularly Mayotte and the Comoros. Projected to affect approximately 2.5 million individuals, Chido poses a severe risk due to its potential for strong winds and heavy rains that may lead to flooding and mudslides. Authorities have reported destruction of houses in the Comoros, while evaluations of damages and needs are underway across the affected areas, including Mozambique, Malawi, and Madagascar. Preparations for emergency responses are being coordinated among regional and national agencies, emphasizing public safety and the positioning of relief resources.
On 13 December, Cyclone Chido passed close to Madagascar without causing reported damages, though conditions remain unsettled. The cyclone is expected to make landfall in Mozambique on 15 December, prompting alerts for hazardous weather including damaging winds and significant rainfall likely to reach 200 mm in some areas. Urgent assessments and operational responses are in progress in anticipation of Chido’s further impact, particularly in the southern regions of Mozambique and Malawi.
Despite the cyclone’s ongoing influence, recommendations for public awareness and readiness continue to be disseminated by regional agencies, with particular emphasis on the need for community compliance with alerts issued by national meteorological services. The cyclone is part of a broader weather pattern likely to affect several Southern African countries, necessitating vigilant monitoring of weather conditions and disaster response plans to mitigate potential adverse effects including flash floods and structural damage.
Tropical Cyclone Chido developed on 7 December in the southeastern Indian Ocean, swiftly intensifying to a Category 4 storm before weakening to Category 3. Its path has raised significant concern as it is set to impact densely populated areas in Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. Over 2.5 million residents are in the cyclone’s predicted trajectory, highlighting the necessity for emergency preparation and response. As authorities assess the risks associated with Chido, collaborative efforts are underway to ensure that resources and information are adequately shared among affected nations, aiming to reduce harm from the impending natural disaster.
Tropical Cyclone Chido is a serious threat to Southern Africa, particularly Mozambique and its neighboring nations. With the potential for severe weather including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and associated flooding, authorities are mobilizing response efforts strategically. Continuous updates and advisories are critical as the situation unfolds. Cooperation among regional and national agencies remains essential to address the impacts of this cyclone and to safeguard the communities in its path.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
