Tropical Cyclone Chido is affecting Mayotte and the Comoros with intense winds and heavy rainfall, leading to potential flooding and mudslides. Approximately 2.5 million people are in the cyclone’s path, notably in Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. Damage assessments are ongoing, with no casualties reported in Madagascar. Preparations and advisories are being issued across the affected regions as authorities mobilize their resources.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has impacted regions including Mayotte and the Comoros, with forecasts indicating it could bring severe weather, including strong winds and heavy rains, potentially resulting in floods and mudslides. Approximately 2.5 million individuals reside in Chido’s projected path, encompassing over 1.7 million in Mozambique, 440,000 in Malawi, and nearly 370,000 in the Comoros. As of December 14, authorities are assessing the damages in Madagascar, where no casualties have been reported despite the cyclone’s close passage. Preparations are in full swing among regional and national authorities as they issue advisories, monitor weather updates, and execute loss and damage assessments to mitigate the cyclone’s impact.
Tropical Cyclone Chido exemplifies the dangers faced by Southern Africa due to extreme weather events. Following its formation on December 7, Chido intensified to a Category 4 cyclone before weakening to Category 3. It has already caused destruction in the Comoros, with reports of home damages and missing fishermen. The cyclone’s trajectory poses risks for heavy rainfall and strong winds to multiple countries, particularly Mozambique, which is expected to suffer from severe conditions as Chido approaches.
In sum, Tropical Cyclone Chido presents a significant threat to Southern Africa, necessitating immediate preparedness and response initiatives from regional governments and humanitarian organizations. The ongoing assessments and safety measures aim to protect the millions of people residing in Chido’s projected path. With expected heavy rains and winds, the potential for substantial flooding and infrastructure damage looms large, underscoring the importance of swift and coordinated emergency responses across affected nations.
Original Source: allafrica.com
