Tropical Cyclone Chido: Devastation in Southern Africa as Relief Efforts Commence
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on 15 December 2024, resulting in 45 deaths and impacting 184,000 individuals, primarily in Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. Malawi has reported 45,162 affected individuals and 13 deaths. Humanitarian partners are assessing the situation and distributing relief supplies in the aftermath of the cyclone.
On 15 December 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique, primarily impacting the provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula. As of 18 December, the disaster has resulted in 45 fatalities, with Cabo Delgado accounting for the majority of the casualties. The cyclone has also affected 184,000 individuals, resulting in significant damage to infrastructure, including over 35,000 homes and numerous health care facilities and schools. Emergency assessments and the distribution of essential supplies are ongoing in affected regions.
In Malawi, the cyclone has also caused destruction, leaving 45,162 individuals impacted and 13 reported deaths. The Department of Disaster Management Affairs is working to address these needs. In Mayotte, the aftermath includes 22 fatalities and extensive injuries, leading to a curfew being imposed to prevent looting, while the public services continue to operate despite suffering heavy damage.
Cyclone Chido developed into a severe weather phenomenon in early December, reaching Category 4 before weakening to Category 3. After wreaking havoc in various regions, it dissipated by 17 December, concluding a turbulent sequence of events that called for urgent humanitarian assistance and strategic recovery measures for the affected populations.
Tropical Cyclone Chido is the latest in a series of severe weather events impacting Southern Africa, particularly Mozambique. Cyclones evolving in this region often lead to devastating consequences, with widespread infrastructure damage and loss of life. Chido’s landfall and subsequent path resulted in displacement and health risks amidst ongoing recovery from previous disasters. The response efforts coordinated by humanitarian organizations aim to provide immediate aid and support long-term recovery efforts for the populations in distress.
The impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido has been severe, with significant loss of life and widespread damage across Mozambique and Malawi. Humanitarian response efforts are crucial in addressing the immediate needs of the affected populations, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure recovery and access to essential services. As the situation continues to evolve, the need for coordinated efforts and resources remains critical to facilitate recovery and mitigate future risks from severe weather events.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
