Mozambique: Aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido Highlights Humanitarian Crisis
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on 15 December 2024, causing over 174,000 people to be affected by heavy rains and strong winds. The hardest-hit provinces include Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa. The emergency response has been complicated by limited resources, highlighting urgent needs for food, medical supplies, and protective services for vulnerable groups. Current assessments continue to indicate an increase in casualties and the extent of damages as recovery efforts begin.
On 15 December 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique, causing significant damage with heavy rainfall of up to 250 mm within 24 hours and winds reaching 120 km/h. The cyclone affected primarily the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa as it moved to Malawi and is expected to dissipate near Zimbabwe by 17 December. Currently, more than 174,000 individuals are reported affected, with 34 confirmed fatalities and numerous injuries. The response effort has been hindered due to limited supplies, despite an allocation of $4 million for early humanitarian support from the Emergency Relief Coordinator.
According to the National Institute for Natural Disaster (INGD), ongoing assessments may increase reported figures as the full impact of Chido emerges. In Cabo Delgado Province, particularly in Mecufi and Chiure districts, the destruction has been extreme, with vast numbers of homes and educational facilities damaged. The health sector is collapsing under the weight of injuries and the loss of medical supplies, which has necessitated urgent appeals for food, shelter, and medical provisions.
Communities are facing severe challenges, including a lack of access to clean water, which is critical for survival. Emergency response teams emphasize the urgent need for safety measures for vulnerable populations, including the establishment of protective spaces for women and children. Furthermore, there is a dire need for dignity and reproductive health kits as well as comprehensive protection and support services to address potential gender-based violence and child protection issues.
In Nampula Province, approximately 46,000 people have been affected, with a rising concern regarding cholera outbreaks amidst ongoing heavy rains. Authorities and humanitarian partners are mobilizing resources to assist communities, although challenges in communication and infrastructure persist. Overall, as the situation continues to unfold, ongoing assessments and collaboration among humanitarian actors will be critical in effectively managing the response to this disaster.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has struck Mozambique with devastating effects, marking one of the most intense weather events to impact the region in December 2024. Cyclones such as Chido are common in the Indian Ocean basin, often leading to severe rainfall, flooding, and damage to infrastructure. The national response to such disasters typically involves multiple agencies coordinating efforts to provide humanitarian assistance and restoration of services. Current assessments highlight vulnerabilities, particularly among displaced populations, necessitating prioritized interventions for health, protection, and livelihood stability.
The aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido has revealed a severe humanitarian crisis in Mozambique, affecting hundreds of thousands and overwhelming local resources. Emergency responders face significant challenges in delivering aid and addressing the immediate needs of affected populations. It is imperative that ongoing assessments lead to targeted interventions that prioritize safety, health, and the restoration of basic services to support recovery efforts in the impacted provinces.
Original Source: www.unocha.org
