Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique, on December 15, 2024, causing severe flooding and destruction. Preliminary reports indicate over 23,598 homes were destroyed, and health facilities severely impacted. Key districts such as Mecufi, Chiure, and Pemba are facing critical humanitarian needs amid disrupted services. The cyclone’s aftermath presents significant health risks and challenges in recovery and aid efforts.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made a devastating landfall in the Mecufi district of Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique, on the morning of December 15, 2024. This severe weather system brought heavy rainfall, with records of up to 250 mm in 24 hours, along with violent winds reaching speeds of 180 km/h. By December 16, Cyclone Chido had progressed into Malawi, and analysts anticipate it will diminish in Zimbabwe by December 17. The cyclone had a catastrophic impact on Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces, with excess damage also reported in Tete and Northern Manica.
In Cabo Delgado Province, particularly affected districts include Mecufi, Chiure, and Pemba. Early evaluations suggest that approximately 23,598 homes were completely destroyed. Additionally, 149 schools and 37 health facilities suffered significant damage. The cyclone disrupted essential services, leading to challenges in electricity, water supply, and internet connectivity. Although Pemba airport has reopened, the situation remains dire.
Within the Mecufi district, infrastructure damage has been catastrophic, as reports indicate that nearly all homes are severely affected, rendering 400 families homeless. The health impact is equally troubling, with confirmed injuries to 50 individuals and 16 fatalities. Medical personnel are now operating from a school under challenging conditions, and while some ambulances are functional, critical road conditions are a significant barrier. Due to exposure to environmental elements, medical supplies have been rendered unusable. Accommodation centers for displaced individuals are non-existent, further compounding health risks associated with the utilization of spoiled medical supplies.
In the Chiure district, an estimated 50% of houses have experienced roof loss, with an additional 50% destroyed entirely. Conditions have led to significant water supply crises, particularly in Megaruma, where water trucking is urgently needed for approximately 3,000 families. The local healthcare structure is under considerable strain, with health services at a mere 30% availability at Chiúre Rural Hospital. Although there are currently four active accommodation centers, displaced individuals have not been registered, which raises concerns for support and assistance.
The Metuge district can only be accessed by four-wheel drive vehicles. Assessment showed significant destruction of shelters in various areas, with signs of devastation featuring approximately 100% damage in locations such as Nalia. Health and education facilities have also been severely impacted. In the Pemba district, three accommodation centers exist, but efforts to operationalize them were only partially successful. Additionally, Pemba City faces risks of urban flooding in several neighborhoods.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused extensive destruction across multiple provinces in Mozambique, displacing thousands, incurring widespread damage to homes and infrastructure, and presenting significant health risks. The immediate need for humanitarian assistance and recovery efforts cannot be overstated as communities face continuing challenges in the aftermath of this natural disaster.
On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province, resulting in catastrophic damage across multiple districts. Characterized by intense rainfall and powerful winds, the cyclone has left entire communities devastated, infrastructure in shambles, and vital services disrupted. The affected regions are grappling with the aftermath, including homelessness, health risks, and lack of clean water, making this a national emergency that necessitates urgent response efforts.
The aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido underscores the urgent need for coordinated humanitarian efforts in the affected provinces. With thousands displaced and infrastructures severely damaged, the situation calls for immediate intervention to provide medical care, shelter, and essential supplies. Ensuring that displaced individuals receive the necessary support and resources is critical in the ongoing recovery efforts following this natural catastrophe.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
