Cyclone Chido has devastated Mayotte, resulting in 22 deaths and major destruction to infrastructure. Climate change is exacerbating such storms, and the region’s lack of warning systems heightens vulnerability to severe weather events. The global community must enhance meteorological preparedness to mitigate future impacts of cyclones in southeastern Africa.
Cyclone Chido has caused significant destruction in Mayotte, marking it as the most severe storm to strike the French overseas territory in nearly a century. Since its landfall on Saturday, the cyclone has resulted in at least 22 fatalities, obliterated entire neighborhoods, and caused substantial damage to infrastructure, while uprooting trees. While the southeastern African coast has historically experienced formidable storms, climate scientists highlight that human-induced climate change is contributing to the increasing frequency and intensity of such cyclones in the region.
The cyclone season in southeastern Africa typically occurs between December and March, corresponding with the warmest ocean temperatures conducive to tropical storm formation. In the past few years, several devastating storms, including Cyclone Freddy, Batsirai, and Idai, have impacted the region during this period, affecting countries such as Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Madagascar. Cyclones, while similar to hurricanes, are referred to as such in the Indian Ocean and Australia, underscoring their geographical nomenclature.
In sum, Cyclone Chido exemplifies the growing challenge posed by severe weather events in the context of climate change. The rise in global temperatures, linked to human activities, not only intensifies storm systems but also contributes to the inadequate preparedness and response capabilities across vulnerable regions. The urgency of establishing effective early warning systems and improving weather forecasting in Africa becomes manifold in light of such disasters, as asserted by global agencies prioritizing this critical issue.
Original Source: www.seattletimes.com
