Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, causing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and significant destruction across several provinces. With over 174,000 individuals affected and numerous fatalities reported, humanitarian response efforts are urgently needed as the situation remains critical.
On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique, unleashing torrential rains of up to 250mm within 24 hours, alongside winds reaching speeds of 120 km/h. Following its impact in Mozambique, Chido moved to Malawi on December 16, and is anticipated to dissipate near Zimbabwe by December 17. Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces have reported the most extensive damage, with an estimated 174,000 individuals affected across the region. The Emergency Relief Coordinator has allocated $4 million to support humanitarian efforts in Mozambique amidst a critical lack of supplies.
Assessments carried out by the Mozambique National Institute for Natural Disaster (INGD) indicate that at least 34 fatalities have been recorded, along with 319 injuries and more than 35,000 homes destroyed or severely damaged. The assessment efforts are ongoing, and these numbers are expected to rise as further evaluations are conducted. The cyclone has also adversely impacted educational and health facilities, resulting in nine schools and ten health centers being affected.
In Cabo Delgado Province, districts such as Mecufi, Chiure, and the provincial capital Pemba have faced the brunt of the cyclone’s impact, with preliminary reports indicating significant destruction of housing and infrastructure. Volunteers and community leaders are being mobilized for support, and essential items, such as dignity kits for women and emergency health supplies, are in urgent demand. The situation remains critical, particularly concerning access to clean water, shelter, and medical care.
In Nampula Province, reports suggest that over 46,000 people have been affected, with substantial devastation in the districts of Memba and Erati. The ongoing cholera outbreak in the province compounds the situation, underscoring the immediate need for food and agricultural support. Meanwhile, in Niassa Province, the cyclone’s effects have also resulted in casualties and destruction of several public facilities, including schools and health centers.
Overall, Tropical Cyclone Chido has triggered a humanitarian crisis in Mozambique, necessitating immediate and coordinated responses to support the affected populations. The extent of the damage and the slow recovery efforts pose significant challenges ahead as humanitarian organizations work to facilitate aid and rebuild communities devastated by this disaster.
Tropical Cyclone Chido is a severe weather event that made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2024, resulting in catastrophic flooding and destructive winds. The cyclone’s path continued through Malawi before dissipating near Zimbabwe, leaving behind a trail of devastation. The Mozambique National Institute for Meteorology and other humanitarian organizations have been instrumental in assessing the damage. The aftermath has prompted international humanitarian efforts to support the affected regions amidst reports of casualties and critical infrastructure losses.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has elicited a humanitarian emergency in Mozambique, with significant loss of life and extensive damage to homes and infrastructure. The immediate needs include food, shelter, health care, and water. Ongoing assessments reveal a worsening situation, thereby necessitating rapid response efforts. The collaborative strategies involving local and international partners are crucial to delivering assistance and supporting recovery in the affected communities.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
