Tropical Cyclone Chido has made landfall in Mozambique and moved to Malawi, causing extensive damage and affecting thousands of people. An emergency fund of $4 million has been allocated for humanitarian efforts. The cyclone has resulted in one death, substantial injuries, and the destruction of homes. Continuous rainfall and further impacts are anticipated in the region.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has recently made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2024, and has since moved into Malawi, causing significant damage and affecting thousands of residents. Reports indicate the cyclone produced gusting winds up to 80 km/h and over 250 mm of rainfall, resulting in at least one fatality, 35 injuries, and the destruction of thousands of homes across several districts. Emergency response efforts are underway, with the Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, allocating $4 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund for urgent relief measures. Assessments by governments and humanitarian partners are ongoing in the affected regions, despite challenges posed by damaged infrastructure and disrupted communication.
The impact of Cyclone Chido has been severe, particularly in Cabo Delgado province, where approximately 160,000 individuals are in need of assistance. The situation is compounded by continuing adverse weather conditions as Chido moves inland, affecting areas in Malawi and further into Mozambique. As of December 16, the cyclone has also impacted Machinga and Blantyre rural districts in Malawi, leading to additional casualties and infrastructure damage. Weather forecasts warn of continued heavy rainfall across a broader region, which may result in flash flooding and mudslides.
In summary, the humanitarian situation in Mozambique and Malawi remains critical as Tropical Cyclone Chido continues to affect vast areas, prompting emergency responses and assessments. With the cyclone expected to dissipate near Zimbabwe by December 17, mitigation efforts are underway to minimize further impact and provide necessary assistance to those affected by this natural disaster.
Tropical Cyclone Chido developed on December 7, 2024, in the southeastern Indian Ocean and intensified to a Category 4 cyclone before weakening to Category 3. It has significantly impacted several regions in southern Africa, particularly Mozambique and Malawi. As it made landfall in Mozambique, it brought strong winds and extensive rainfall, contributing to widespread destruction and resulting in humanitarian crises. The response to the cyclone is supported by international assistance and local government efforts, aiming to address immediate needs and evaluate long-term recovery measures.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused widespread devastation in Mozambique and Malawi, with significant human and material losses. Efforts to provide emergency aid are underway, but challenges remain in affected regions as authorities work to assess and respond to the urgent humanitarian needs. The cyclone’s journey continues to pose threats as heavy rainfall and adverse conditions are forecasted for several more days, thus affecting a broader area. Continued vigilance and support for emergency response initiatives are critical for the region’s recovery.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
