Impact and Preparedness for Tropical Cyclone Chido in Southern Africa
Tropical Cyclone Chido is set to affect approximately 2.7 million people in Southern Africa, with significant impacts anticipated in Madagascar and Mozambique. The cyclone has weakened to Category 3 but remains dangerous, triggering extensive emergency preparedness across the region. Heavy rainfall and winds over 120 km/h are expected, leading to potential flash flooding and increased humanitarian needs.
As of December 13, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has significantly impacted Southern Africa, affecting an estimated 2.7 million individuals across six countries, including Madagascar, Mozambique, and Malawi. The cyclone, which reached Category 4 intensity before weakening to Category 3, is projected to bring heavy rainfall and winds exceeding 120 km/h, particularly in northern Mozambique where it will make landfall on December 15. Ongoing preparedness measures include community advisories, humanitarian aid repositioning, and preventive evacuations in anticipation of the storm’s adverse effects. Regions such as Zimbabwe and Zambia are also expected to experience heavy rainfall related to the cyclone.
The emergence of Tropical Cyclone Chido in early December 2024 has raised significant concerns for Southern Africa, particularly in the context of ongoing weather vulnerabilities. The cyclone developed within the south-eastern Indian Ocean Basin and escalated in severity, necessitating extensive emergency preparedness from governments and humanitarian agencies. The heavy rainfall and strong winds anticipated from Chido threaten to exacerbate the already challenging humanitarian conditions in affected countries, which are recovering from previous cyclone damages.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a serious threat to millions across Southern Africa, especially in countries like Mozambique and Madagascar. Preparedness efforts are critical as the cyclone approaches landfall, with a concerted focus on community safety, early warning systems, and coordinated humanitarian responses. Continued monitoring and evaluation of the cyclone’s impacts will be essential for effective disaster management and support for affected populations.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
