Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, bringing severe winds and over 250 mm of rain, causing extensive damage to homes and infrastructure. The cyclone affected communication and power supply in many areas. As the storm moves into Malawi and back to Mozambique, severe weather conditions are expected to persist, necessitating vigilant updates from meteorological services.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, unleashing powerful winds reaching up to 80 km/h and deluging the region with over 250 mm of rain within just 24 hours. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) reported widespread destruction, with more than 5,800 homes destroyed and considerable damage to educational facilities and infrastructure, impacting approximately 2,500 families. As assessments of the damage continue, additional figures may emerge.
In Pemba, residents have experienced persistent power outages, complicating communication efforts. Reports indicate that mobile networks are intermittent, prompting individuals to conserve battery life for essential calls. The cyclone previously wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, where it struck as a Category 4 system, resulting in extensive devastation.
As of December 16, Chido was moving inland towards Malawi, still exhibiting characteristics of a moderate tropical storm. The cyclone’s center has traversed southern Malawi, generating substantial rainfall between 100 to 150 mm. It is projected to return to Mozambique before dissipating near Zimbabwe on December 17. Residents in both Mozambique and Malawi are advised to stay informed through updates from their respective national meteorological services.
Tropical cyclones are severe weather phenomena that often occur in regions near warm ocean waters, leading to substantial rainfall and widespread damage. Cyclone Chido is a recent demonstration of these dangers, impacting Southern Africa, particularly Mozambique and Malawi. The Southern African Development Community plays an essential role in coordinating responses and relief efforts during such disasters, aiming to assess damage and provide assistance to affected communities.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused significant destruction across Southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique and Malawi. With thousands of homes damaged and infrastructure compromised, the local communities face immense challenges, including power outages and communication difficulties. Continued monitoring of weather patterns and effective response strategies are crucial as the region seeks to recover from this catastrophic event.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
