Cyclone Chido has caused at least 34 deaths and 43 injuries in Mozambique, affecting approximately 2.5 million people. The cyclone, which hit Cabo Delgado province, led to extreme destruction, rendering many homes uninhabitable. Experts warn of increased frequency of cyclones in the region due to climate change.
Cyclone Chido significantly impacted Mozambique, leading to the fatalities of at least 34 individuals and leaving 43 others injured following its assault on northern provinces. Preliminary assessments by the head of the country’s disaster management agency signal that the casualty figures may increase as rescue operations continue. Luisa Meque, chair of Mozambique’s National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction, reported that roughly 2.5 million individuals are affected by the cyclone, with extensive devastation primarily noted in the Cabo Delgado province, including its capital, Pemba.
The cyclone made its initial landfall in Mecufi, a district in Cabo Delgado, where nearly all residences suffered damage, leaving few standing structures. Firsthand accounts, such as that of Canjar Amade, who described the cyclone’s destructive force that destroyed his home, illustrate the storm’s violence, tearing off roof sheets during the night, resulting in his house collapsing by the following morning. As the storm continues to cause problems in Niassa and Cabo Delgado, meteorologist Acacio Tembe warns that these regions are still experiencing heavy rains and strong winds as remnants of the cyclone persist.
The cyclone’s path also affected Malawi and the island of Mayotte, ultimately expected to dissipate near Zimbabwe by late Tuesday. It is essential to note that Mozambique is considered one of the nations most vulnerable to global climate change, prone to cyclical occurrences of floods and tropical cyclones during the rainy season, which spans from October to April. Looking ahead, experts indicate that a potential La Niña effect in early 2025 could lead to an increased frequency and intensity of storms in the Indian Ocean, heightening flood risks in regions already grappling with drought.
Mozambique’s geographic location and climatic conditions make it particularly susceptible to extreme weather events, such as cyclones and flooding. The country experiences a rainy season that extends from October to April, during which it frequently faces the threats of tropical cyclones. As evidenced by the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido, Mozambique is severely impacted by the challenges posed by climate change, with scientists predicting an increase in the occurrence and severity of such weather phenomena in the years to come.
In summary, Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc in northern Mozambique, resulting in significant loss of life, widespread injury, and extensive damage to infrastructure. With approximately 2.5 million residents affected, emergency services are working meticulously to assess and address the needs of the impacted populations. Given Mozambique’s vulnerability to climate change, continuous monitoring and preparedness for future storms will be crucial in mitigating disaster effects in the future.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
