Tropical Cyclone Chido: Impacts and Emergency Response Across Southern Africa
Tropical Cyclone Chido, as of December 14, 2024, is impacting Mayotte and the Comoros with severe winds and heavy rains, threatening approximately 2.5 million individuals in its projected path, which includes significant populations in Mozambique and Malawi. While assessments are underway, national authorities are activating emergency response systems to address the cyclone’s potential impact, particularly as it moves towards Mozambique.
As of December 14, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused significant disruptions in Mayotte and the Comoros, with forecasts indicating severe winds and heavy rainfall that may lead to flooding and mudslides. Approximately 2.5 million individuals reside within the cyclone’s anticipated path, with over 1.7 million in Mozambique, 440,000 in Malawi, and nearly 370,000 in the Comoros. While weather conditions are temporarily unsettled amid the cyclone’s trajectory, the Malagasy authorities are conducting damage assessments following the cyclone’s narrow passage north of Madagascar. Regional preparedness efforts are ongoing, with advisories being issued by national authorities to mitigate potential impacts.
In the Comoros, Chido has devastated the islands, particularly Anjouan, where reports indicate the destruction of five homes and damage to mosques and poultry coops. Residents have sought refuge with family members as recovery efforts commence. In Mozambique, the cyclone is anticipated to make landfall on December 15, bringing hazardous weather conditions, including damaging winds reaching up to 200mm of rainfall within 12 to 24 hours and turbulent sea conditions with wave heights of 6 to 10 meters.
The Southern Africa region is bracing for heavy rainfall from Cyclone Chido, with predictions of over 150mm in northern Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. The cyclone, which developed in early December and briefly intensified to a Category 4 cyclone, will lead to flash floods and mudslides due to excessive rainfall. Emergency response mechanisms are being mobilized across affected countries, with national meteorological services issuing warnings and initiating disaster preparedness activities across the region.
Tropical Cyclone Chido, a developing weather system in the southeastern Indian Ocean, demonstrates the potential threats cyclones pose to Southern Africa. This cyclone is particularly concerning due to its projected path, which intersects populous areas of Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. Tropical cyclones in this region often bring intense precipitation, high winds, and consequent flooding and landslides, necessitating urgent preparedness and emergency response measures from regional authorities. With a history of severe weather events in this region, the local and international humanitarian organizations are on alert to ensure safety and timely assistance to affected populations.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a significant risk to millions across Southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. Authorities are actively issuing warnings and mobilizing to prepare for anticipated flooding and other impacts. Damage assessments and disaster preparedness measures are critical as the situation evolves, highlighting the need for robust emergency responses to mitigate the potential hazards associated with this severe weather event.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
