Cyclone Chido has caused extensive devastation in Mayotte and Mozambique, resulting in significant casualties and displacement. At least 120 deaths have been reported in Mozambique and 35 in Mayotte, with tens of thousands affected. The humanitarian response focuses on urgent needs for food, shelter, and mental health support, particularly in regions like Mecúfi and Metuge, where homes have been largely destroyed.
In the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate in Mayotte and Mozambique. The cyclone, which struck between December 14 and 17, brought winds reaching up to 243 km/h and heavy rainfall, leading to power outages and significant destruction across affected areas. The latest reports indicate that at least 120 lives have been lost in Mozambique and 35 in Mayotte, with thousands more injured. In Mayotte, the devastation has left entire neighborhoods in ruins, with many families displaced and in dire need of assistance.
For instance, Kamar, an eight-year-old resident of Petite-Terre, expressed the sorrow and loss felt by many, stating, “My house was completely destroyed. We’ve lost everything. Everyone is sad. We need everything: food, water, clothes… electricity.” Meanwhile, in Mozambique, nearly 380,000 individuals, including over 90,000 children, have been affected. Experts from humanitarian organizations like Handicaps International (HI) are actively assessing the situation, identifying urgent needs for shelter, cooking supplies, and mental health support for those traumatized by the storm.
The Mecúfi and Metuge districts have been particularly devastated, with reports indicating that 99% of homes in Mecúfi were destroyed, displacing approximately 16,000 families amidst the onset of the rainy season. The challenges faced in the response efforts include managing overwhelming amounts of debris and providing essential services like drinking water and food.
As HI continues to monitor the situation closely alongside local and international partners, the urgent call for humanitarian aid remains a priority. Efforts are being directed toward ensuring the well-being and recovery of the affected populations as they begin to rebuild their lives.
Cyclone Chido severely impacted regions in Southern Africa, with significant effects noted in Mayotte and Mozambique. Traveling from Madagascar through the Comoros and affecting northern Mozambique and southern Malawi, the cyclone brought catastrophic winds and rainfall, resulting in widespread displacement and destruction. The humanitarian response is critical as communities grapple with the immediate needs following the disaster, especially given the unique challenges presented by the rainy season. The situation calls for comprehensive assessments and targeted support for the most vulnerable, including children and those with disabilities.
The devastation caused by Cyclone Chido highlights the urgency of humanitarian interventions in Mayotte and Mozambique. With rising casualties and extensive damage, affected communities face significant challenges. Organizations like HI are pivotal in assessing needs and delivering assistance focused on shelter, nutrition, and mental health support. As the humanitarian crisis evolves, continuous efforts are essential to aid those in distress and guide them towards recovery and rebuilding.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
