Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, leading to 45 deaths and affecting over 184,000 individuals. The cyclone also impacted Malawi, resulting in 13 deaths and affecting 45,000 people. Humanitarian efforts are focused on assessing needs and distributing essential supplies, amid widespread destruction and a pressing need for shelter, food, and water.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2024, resulting in significant devastation, particularly in the Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. As reported on December 18, the death toll has reached 45, with over 184,000 individuals affected across affected regions. The cyclone also caused casualties in Malawi, where 45,000 people are impacted, including 13 confirmed deaths. Humanitarian efforts are underway to assess the damage and provide essential supplies to those in need amidst the ongoing crisis.
The cyclone, with winds of approximately 260 km/h and heavy rainfall exceeding 250 mm, left over 35,000 homes either partially or entirely destroyed. Significant infrastructure damage has been reported, including approximately 48 health centres and 149 schools. The focus now pivots to addressing immediate humanitarian needs such as food, water, sanitation, and shelter for the affected populations. In Malawi, casualties continued to rise, emphasizing the cyclone’s regional impact. Meanwhile, similar challenges have emerged on the island of Mayotte, where the death toll stands at 22, illustrating the widespread nature of the storm’s influence.
Chido initially developed in the southeastern Indian Ocean and reached tropical cyclone status before making landfall. The storm traversed various regions, impacting Madagascar, Mayotte, the Comoros, and finally Mozambique before dissipating near Zimbabwe. Continuous assessments are ongoing to analyze further damage and the needs of local communities as emergency response measures are implemented.
In summary, while the immediate aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido is characterized by tragic loss and disruptions, efforts are concentrated on recovery and supporting affected populations across Mozambique, Malawi, and Mayotte. The cyclone’s extensive reach signifies the importance of coordinated humanitarian response efforts in the face of natural disasters.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has profoundly affected southeastern Africa, with a particularly devastating impact on Mozambique, Malawi, and Mayotte. Understanding the dynamics of tropical cyclones, their formation, and path can assist in mitigating damage from future storms. The cyclone formed in a region characterized by warm sea temperatures conducive to such weather phenomena, underscoring the need for preparedness in vulnerable areas.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has led to severe devastation in southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, where it caused significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure. Humanitarian responses are mobilizing to address essential needs, while assessments continue to ascertain the full extent of the impact. The ongoing situation highlights the urgent requirement for disaster management strategies in cyclone-prone regions.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
