Cyclone Chido has raised the death toll in Mozambique to 120, injuring nearly 900 individuals and damaging homes, schools, and health centers. The storm made landfall on December 15, following its initial strike in Mayotte. In total, the cyclone has caused loss of life and property damage across multiple countries in the region.
The death toll from Cyclone Chido in Mozambique has tragically increased from 94 to 120, as reported by the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD). The cyclone, classified as a category 4 storm, made landfall on December 15, unleashing devastating wind speeds of up to 260 kilometers per hour (160 mph) and substantial rainfall amounting to 250mm within the first 24 hours. Additionally, nearly 900 individuals have sustained injuries, and many have been left homeless due to the destruction of their residences. Critical infrastructure, including schools and health facilities, has also been heavily affected by the storm’s ferocity.
Initially, Cyclone Chido made its impact felt in the French overseas territory of Mayotte on December 14, where winds surpassed 220 kilometers per hour (136 mph), resulting in extensive damage. Currently, the official death count in Mayotte stands at 35, but reports suggest that the actual figure may be considerably higher. The cyclone’s effects extended beyond Mozambique, impacting neighboring regions such as Madagascar, Comoros, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. In Malawi, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) indicates that Cyclone Chido has claimed 13 lives and left an additional 29 injured, alongside significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
Cyclones represent severe weather phenomena characterized by intense winds and heavy rainfall, often leading to widespread destruction and loss of life. The occurrence of Cyclone Chido, which reached category 4 status, underscores the vulnerability of regions in southeastern Africa to such natural disasters. During its trajectory, the cyclone exhibited traits typical of high-velocity storms, which can wreak havoc on communities ill-prepared for sudden climatic changes.
In summary, Cyclone Chido has inflicted severe devastation across Mozambique and surrounding regions, with a rising death toll and significant injury counts. The storm’s impact has left many individuals homeless and has compromised essential infrastructure. As recovery efforts are initiated, the resilience of the affected communities will be put to the test as they navigate the aftermath of this natural disaster.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
