Cyclone Chido has led to a death toll of 120 in Mozambique, with nearly 900 injured. The cyclone made landfall with extreme winds and rainfall, causing significant damage to infrastructure, including homes, schools, and healthcare facilities. Its effects were felt across multiple countries in southern Africa, with recorded fatalities in Malawi as well.
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 powerful category 4 cyclone made landfall on December 15, causing winds of up to 260 kilometers per hour (160 mph) and approximately 250mm of rainfall within the first day. Nearly 900 individuals have sustained injuries as a result of the storm. Authorities have also noted significant damage to homes, schools, and healthcare facilities, leaving many citizens displaced. The cyclone initially impacted the French territory of Mayotte on December 14, where it garnered unofficial reports of a higher death toll than the officially recorded 35 fatalities. Additionally, the effects of Cyclone Chido extended to Madagascar, Comoros, Zimbabwe, and Malawi, where the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) recorded 13 fatalities and 29 injuries in Malawi alone, alongside extensive damage to infrastructure and residences.
Cyclone Chido has exemplified the destructive impact of tropical storms in southern Africa. This cyclone’s formation and intensity serve as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to climate-induced weather events. The storm initially lashed Mayotte before intensifying as it approached Mozambique. Tropical cyclones such as Chido pose a significant threat due to their potential to cause widespread human suffering, infrastructure damage, and long-term changes to the affected regions’ socio-economic conditions. Rapid responses from local and international agencies remain crucial in mitigating these impacts.
In conclusion, Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc across several countries, primarily Mozambique, where the death toll has risen to 120 with nearly 900 reported injuries. The effects of this storm highlight the ongoing challenges faced by countries in the region regarding disaster preparedness and response. Infrastructure damage, particularly to homes, schools, and health centers, underscores the need for enhanced resilience measures against future climatic events. The regional impact, felt also in Mayotte, Madagascar, Comoros, Zimbabwe, and Malawi, further demonstrates the broader ramifications of such natural disasters. A concerted effort is required for recovery and rebuilding efforts in the affected regions moving forward.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
