Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2023, as a category 4 storm, causing extensive damage with winds of 260 km/h and heavy rainfall. The cyclone mainly affected Cabo Delgado and Nampula, prompting emergency responses from UNICEF and SADC. Areas such as southern Malawi will also experience effects, showcasing the cyclone’s widespread impact in the region.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall on December 15, 2023, at approximately 6 am local time in Mozambique, striking as a category 4 cyclone near Pemba city within Cabo Delgado Province. The cyclone was characterized by winds reaching 260 km/h and substantial rainfall of 250 mm within 24 hours, which led to hazardous sea conditions and potential coastal flooding. Primarily affecting the Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces, Cyclone Chido resulted in reported damage to structures and disruption of mobile networks, although power continued in certain locations.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre indicated the cyclone’s severe winds and intense weather could cause significant damage to infrastructure and uproot trees. Additional provinces such as Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia were anticipated to face impacts later that day, prompting advisories for residents to remain vigilant in monitoring weather changes.
In response to the calamity, UNICEF is actively assessing conditions in Cabo Delgado and providing essential services to families and children affected by the cyclone. Mary-Louise Eagleton, UNICEF Mozambique Representative stated that lifesaving aid, including medicines and water purification supplies, would be delivered to support those in dire need. However, she emphasized that further assistance is crucial to adequately address the urgent demands created by Cyclone Chido.
Moreover, the cyclone’s remains are projected to affect southern Malawi with further heavy rainfall and wind, transitioning towards Zimbabwe by December 17. Prior to reaching Mozambique, Cyclone Chido closely approached the Comoros islands, specifically Anjouan, Moheli, and Ngazidja, where preliminary reports indicated some damage but less severe conditions compared to Mozambique.
Cyclone Chido is indicative of the increasing frequency and intensity of tropical storms occurring in Southern Africa, particularly affecting coastal nations like Mozambique. The presence of such severe storms raises concerns regarding infrastructure resilience and humanitarian responses in the region. The cyclone’s landfall and the resultant damage underscore the necessity for effective disaster preparedness and relief frameworks to protect vulnerable populations, especially children and families. The role of international organizations, such as UNICEF, becomes crucial in addressing immediate needs and restoring services damaged by such disasters.
In conclusion, Cyclone Chido’s landfall in Cabo Delgado Province has resulted in severe winds, substantial rainfall, and damage to communities, drawing a response from humanitarian organizations. As the cyclone affects broader regions, the ongoing assessment and aid provision by UNICEF and other agencies highlight the urgent need for support in rebuilding efforts. The events surrounding Cyclone Chido illustrate the broader challenges posed by climate-related disasters and the importance of preparedness in mitigating their impact.
Original Source: allafrica.com
