Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, 2023, with devastating winds and heavy rainfall, affecting approximately 2.5 million individuals across Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. The cyclone’s impact includes severe flooding risks and widespread damage, prompting a response from the Mozambique Red Cross Society to aid the most affected areas. Initial estimates detail significant populations exposed to the cyclone’s path, necessitating urgent humanitarian assistance.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique during the early hours of December 15, 2023, specifically impacting the southern areas of Cabo Delgado Province close to Pemba. Classified as a very intense Category 4 cyclone, Chido brought with it devastating winds reaching 200 km/h, with gusts up to 250 km/h. Heavy rainfall commenced at approximately 3 AM local time, leading to significant forecasts of over 250 mm of rain within 24 hours, particularly affecting Mecu, Metuge, Ancuabe, and other areas in both Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces.
As the cyclone progressed, damage assessments indicated that the areas in its path suffered considerable impacts, primarily due to the destructive winds and torrential rainfall, which pose risks of severe flooding and landslides. Coastal regions are also vulnerable to storm surges, exacerbating the flooding situation. Reports indicate disruptions in mobile networks, particularly in Pemba, although electricity remains operational in some localities.
The initial estimates predict that approximately 2.5 million individuals might be affected as a result of Cyclone Chido. Cabo Delgado Province has reported the most severe exposure, affecting districts such as Ancuabe and the City of Pemba, totaling around 1.5 million people. In Nampula Province, including districts like Memba and the City of Nampula, an additional 730,000 individuals are at risk. Furthermore, the Niassa region reports an exposed population of about 215,000 across its districts.
The DREF application has been initiated to enable the Mozambique Red Cross Society (CVM) to mobilize response activities in the worst-hit areas. Further updates and assessments will follow once the response plan is established and additional data is gathered. In the interim, the situation remains critical, requiring immediate attention and resources for those impacted by this natural disaster.
Cyclone Chido represents one of the most severe weather events to impact Mozambique, particularly affecting the provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula. Historical patterns show that the region is susceptible to tropical cyclones, which frequently bring devastating winds, rainfall, and associated flooding. Understanding the implications of such natural disasters is crucial for effective response and recovery efforts. The potential for comprehensive damage, not only to infrastructure but also to communities and livelihoods, necessitates urgent action and coordination among humanitarian agencies.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused significant devastation across the Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces of Mozambique, impacting an estimated 2.5 million people. With winds of 200 km/h and heavy rainfall forecasted, the cyclone poses a serious threat of flooding and landslides. The Mozambique Red Cross Society is mobilizing resources to assist the affected communities, with a focus on immediate response efforts and assessing ongoing needs. The situation remains critical, highlighting the necessity for ongoing support and preparedness planning in face of natural disasters.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
