Tropical Storm Chido caused at least seven deaths and affected over 30,000 people in Malawi. It resulted in significant damage to homes and facilities. The storm also impacted neighboring Mozambique and the Comoros archipelago, with many homes destroyed. Relief efforts are underway to assist those affected by the disaster.
Tropical Storm Chido has wreaked havoc in Malawi, resulting in the loss of at least seven lives and impacting over 30,000 residents, according to reports released by disaster officials. The Malawi Department of Disaster Management Affairs described the storm’s destructive path, which included the uprooting of roofs from educational facilities, health centers, and residences, affecting 7,721 households, equivalent to 34,741 individuals. Notably, three fatalities occurred in Salima district, with additional deaths reported in Kasungu, Machinga, Blantyre, and Lilongwe districts. The storm also left 16 individuals injured.
Chido, which originated northeast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, made landfall on Sunday near Nacala, Mozambique, causing extensive damage in that region. A United Nations report indicated that the storm substantially impacted more than 174,000 individuals in Mozambique and nearly 64,000 in the Comoros archipelago, leading to the destruction of thousands of homes. As it moved into Malawi on Monday, the remnants of Chido transitioned into a moderate tropical storm, unleashing heavy rains and flooding across approximately 17 districts, primarily in the southern region of the country.
The director of the Malawi Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, Lucy Mtilatila, reported on Tuesday that the storm had since dissipated but cautioned, “Our eyes are on the Indian Ocean in case there will be another development. But so far, so good.” Following the storm, classes resumed after a temporary suspension was enacted for safety reasons. Furthermore, the disaster agency has concluded its search and rescue operations in affected regions and is actively coordinating relief efforts with humanitarian partners to support the displaced households.
Tropical storms pose significant risks to communities, particularly in vulnerable regions such as Malawi. The cyclonic systems like Tropical Storm Chido can cause extensive damage due to high winds and torrential rains, leading to loss of life and displacement of people. Disaster management agencies often work in conjunction with international organizations to assess damage, provide aid, and support recovery in the aftermath of such events. Understanding the patterns and impacts of storms in this region informs both immediate response and long-term preparedness strategies.
In summary, Tropical Storm Chido has resulted in tragic loss of life and widespread damage in Malawi, prompting urgent humanitarian responses to aid the affected populations. The situation underscores the vulnerability of communities to tropical storms and the critical importance of disaster preparedness and management. Collaboration between government agencies and international partners will be essential in the recovery efforts for those impacted by the storm.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
