Tropical Cyclone Chido is set to impact Southern Africa, particularly Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. With about 2.5 million people at risk, the cyclone will bring severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and high waves, prompting urgent preparations in affected countries. Rescue operations are underway in the Comoros, and red alerts have been issued in Mozambique as areas brace for landfall on December 15.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has begun to impact several countries in Southern Africa, posing a significant threat to approximately 2.5 million individuals across Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. After inflicting severe wind damage in Mayotte, the cyclone is anticipated to make landfall in northern Mozambique on December 15. Emergency services have been activated in the Comoros, where five homes were destroyed, and rescue operations are underway for eleven missing fishers in Ngazidja.
In anticipation of Cyclone Chido’s arrival, Mozambique has issued red alerts for the Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. Humanitarian organizations are mobilizing resources and preparing for damage assessments. Forecasts predict extreme conditions, including storms and substantial rainfall of 100-200mm in a 12-24 hour period, as well as rough seas with waves reaching heights of up to ten meters.
Malawi is preparing for the cyclone’s remnants, likely to impact from December 15-16, which may lead to flash floods and strong winds across 24 southern districts. The government has activated its Emergency Operation Centre to facilitate district-level response measures effectively.
Regional authorities, notably the Southern African Development Community (SADC), are actively monitoring the situation, disseminating updates, and advising on preparedness measures. This includes enhancing public awareness, positioning relief supplies, and reinforcing early warning systems. As the cyclone dissipates near Zimbabwe by December 17, heavy rains may further affect surrounding countries such as Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Tanzania, and South Africa.
Cyclone Chido represents a significant weather event in Southern Africa, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities in the region. With millions at risk, humanitarian agencies and governmental bodies are bracing for the cyclone’s impact while coordinating response strategies to mitigate loss of life and property. Historical patterns suggest increased cyclone intensity impacts due to climate change, underscoring the need for robust emergency preparedness and response systems within affected nations.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a severe threat to Southern Africa, with millions anticipated to be affected across Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. The region’s governments and humanitarian organizations are mobilizing resources and coordinating response efforts in preparation for extreme weather conditions. The impending landfall and its aftermath highlight the critical need for effective disaster preparedness and responsive actions to safeguard vulnerable communities in the path of the cyclone.
Original Source: allafrica.com
