Death Toll from Tropical Cyclone Chido Increased to 94 in Mozambique
Mozambique has increased its death toll to 94 following the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Chido, with significant damage reported in Cabo Delgado province. The cyclone also affected Mayotte and Malawi, raising concerns over undocumented migrant deaths in Mayotte and a continuing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by political unrest in Mozambique.
Mozambique has escalated its official death toll from Tropical Cyclone Chido to 94, a week after the cyclone inflicted significant damage across the western Indian Ocean. The national disaster management agency announced this revision, attributing the increase to the extensive devastation in the region, particularly in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, where the cyclone’s winds reached 260 kilometers per hour, and 250 millimeters of rain fell in just one day. The storm has left approximately 620,000 Mozambicans affected, with over 110,000 homes destroyed.
In addition to Mozambique, the cyclone wreaked havoc on the French island territory of Mayotte, triggering concerns of an increasing death toll amid reports of severe injuries and destruction. Although official figures currently reflect 35 fatalities and over 2,500 injured in Mayotte, the actual toll may be much higher due to numerous undocumented migrants residing in the affected areas, leading to apprehension regarding undeterred casualties. The cyclone has reportedly intensified due to climate change factors according to experts.
Amidst this disaster, Mozambique is grappling with a pre-existing political crisis, following a contentious election that left at least 130 individuals dead due to subsequent protests against President Daniel Chapo, which were characterized by allegations of fraud. As the cyclone moved from Mozambique into Malawi, it continued to cause casualties, leading to 13 deaths and nearly 30 injuries according to the Malawian disaster management agency. This catastrophic weather phenomenon represents a significant humanitarian crisis that both regions are struggling to manage effectively.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has had a profound impact on several regions in southern Africa, especially Mozambique and the French territory of Mayotte. The cyclone escalated to category four, affecting areas known for their vulnerability to such natural disasters, resulting in substantial infrastructural damage and loss of life. Climate change is believed to have intensified the cyclone’s effects, raising concerns among experts regarding future disaster preparedness. Furthermore, Mozambique’s socio-political instability complicates its response and recovery efforts, given recent civil unrest following disputed electoral outcomes.
In summary, the death toll from Tropical Cyclone Chido has unfortunately risen to 94 in Mozambique, revealing the extensive human and material toll the cyclone has taken on the region. With substantial loss of life and numerous homes destroyed, the tragedy underscores the urgent need for disaster response and recovery initiatives. Additionally, as the cyclone progresses, surrounding regions such as Malawi must also brace for the lingering effects, highlighting a regional crisis that extends beyond Mozambique’s borders.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
