Cyclone Chido’s Impact: Mozambique Reports 120 Fatalities

Cyclone Chido in Mozambique has resulted in 120 deaths and nearly 900 injuries, primarily due to the storm’s high wind speeds and rainfall. The natural disaster has severely damaged homes and crucial infrastructure, affecting various regions, including Malawi and Mayotte, where fatalities have also been reported.

The death toll from Cyclone Chido in Mozambique has tragically increased to 120, as reported by the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD). This powerful category 4 tropical cyclone made landfall on December 15, unleashing wind speeds of 260 kilometers per hour (160 mph) and causing 250 mm of rainfall within just the first 24 hours. In addition to the fatalities, almost 900 individuals have sustained injuries, and numerous communities are now homeless due to the destruction of their residences. The cyclone has heavily impacted essential infrastructure, including schools and health centers, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Before reaching Mozambique, Cyclone Chido first targeted the French overseas territory of Mayotte on December 14, resulting in winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour (136 mph) and widespread destruction. Reports indicate that the death toll in Mayotte stands at 35, although some organizations suggest the true number may be significantly higher. The devastating effects of the cyclone have also extended to neighboring regions, impacting countries such as Madagascar, Comoros, Zimbabwe, and Malawi, where local authorities report 13 fatalities and 29 injuries due to the storm in Malawi alone.

Authorities are continuing to assess the damage and response efforts to support affected communities as they grapple with the aftermath of Cyclone Chido. The national and international response will be critical in addressing both immediate needs and long-term recovery in the affected areas.

Cyclone Chido has emerged as a severe tropical cyclone affecting multiple nations in the southern hemisphere, with Mozambique being one of the most severely impacted countries. It is important to recognize that tropical cyclones, particularly those categorized as 4 or above, pose significant dangers due to their high wind speeds and heavy rainfall, resulting in widespread damage to infrastructure and loss of life. Understanding the geographical context and climatic conditions that allow such storms to develop aids in comprehending the full impact of Cyclone Chido’s destruction.

In summary, Cyclone Chido has wrought devastation across southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, where the death toll has reached 120, with numerous injuries and widespread infrastructural damage. The implications of the cyclone underscore the necessity for robust disaster response and recovery efforts to address the immediate humanitarian needs of the affected populations and to facilitate long-term recovery and resilience against future climatic disasters.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr