Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, causing significant destruction, including over 5,800 homes destroyed and power outages affecting thousands. The cyclone, previously a Category 4 storm in Mayotte, has since moved into Malawi and continues its path toward Zimbabwe. Communication challenges persist, as locals conserve phone battery power during ongoing electrical disruptions.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, inflicting significant damage in the region. The cyclone generated strong winds with gusts reaching 80 km/h, accompanied by thunderstorms and substantial rainfall that surpassed 250 mm within 24 hours. Consequently, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) reported the destruction of over 5,800 homes and partial damage to 41 classrooms, displacing approximately 2,500 families. These figures are expected to rise as damage assessments continue.
Communication within the area has suffered as residents face frequent power outages, complicating phone charging and limiting connectivity. Many individuals are conserving battery power for essential communications due to the ongoing electrical disruption. In the neighboring French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte, Cyclone Chido, classified as a Category 4 storm at landfall, devastated entire neighborhoods with winds exceeding 220 km/h.
As of December 16, Cyclone Chido is advancing from Mozambique into Malawi, where it maintains its strength at the minimal level of a moderate tropical storm, bringing rain accumulations of 100-150 mm. The cyclone’s trajectory indicates it will traverse back into Mozambique and toward Zimbabwe by December 17. Authorities urge residents of Mozambique and Malawi to remain vigilant and informed through updates from their national meteorological services.
The Southern African region frequently experiences tropical cyclones, which pose significant risks to infrastructure, human safety, and economic stability. Tropical Cyclone Chido exemplifies this threat, having caused extensive destruction in Mozambique and alarming impacts in neighboring territories. The response strategies of regional organizations, such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC), are critical for disaster management and recovery.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has wrought havoc in Southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, where severe winds and heavy rainfall have led to widespread destruction. As the storm continues to move inland, its effects are felt in Malawi and potentially Zimbabwe. It is crucial for affected communities to stay updated on weather forecasts and ensure their safety as assessment efforts continue to gauge the full extent of the damage.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
