Cyclone Chido Hits Mozambique, Leaving Destruction and Urgent Needs in Its Wake

Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province on December 15, 2023, as a category 4 cyclone. With winds of 260 km/h and rainfall of 250 mm, it caused extensive damage, particularly in Cabo Delgado and Nampula. UNICEF is responding to urgent humanitarian needs, while the cyclone’s remnants threaten southern Malawi. The situation emphasizes the importance of disaster readiness in the region.

Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province on the morning of December 15, 2023, as a powerful category 4 cyclone. Approximately 35-40 kilometers south of Pemba city, the storm exhibited winds reaching 260 kilometers per hour and heavy rainfall accumulating to 250 millimeters within a 24-hour period. The severe weather posed grave risks for coastal areas, leading to warnings of potential submersion and destruction across the region.

The cyclone primarily impacted the provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula, affecting numerous localities, including Mecufi, Metuge, and Quissanga, among others. Reports from Nampula officials indicated damage to residential structures by 9 AM on Sunday, while Pemba experienced disruptions in mobile service, although electricity maintained functionality in some areas.

The Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre of the Southern African Development Community (SHOC) emphasized that the cyclone’s extreme winds posed a significant risk to buildings, trees, and critical infrastructure, with Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia provinces also predicted to experience the cyclone’s aftermath. Residents were urged to remain vigilant and check updates from national weather services.

UNICEF is actively assessing the situation in Cabo Delgado, intending to provide immediate relief to children and families affected by the cyclone. Mary-Louise Eagleton, UNICEF Mozambique Representative, stated, “UNICEF will be delivering lifesaving medicines, water purification supplies, and other essentials to keep people safe and healthy. Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed, and we are working closely with the Government to ensure continuity of essential basic services.”

On December 14, Cyclone Chido traversed near the Comoros islands, resulting in mild impacts such as minimal injuries and flooding on Anjouan island, while Moheli reported only agricultural damage. The cyclone’s remnants were anticipated to influence southern Malawi from December 15-16, bringing residual heavy rains and strong winds before dissipating over Zimbabwe by December 17.

Cyclone Chido is the latest significant weather event to impact Southern Africa, following a pattern of intense storms in recent years. The region’s vulnerability to tropical cyclones has increased due to climate change and geographic factors, leading to dangerous conditions that can result in destruction and displacement. Cabo Delgado Province, which has experienced conflict and instability, faces additional challenges in disaster response efforts, especially in relation to humanitarian aid for vulnerable populations. This cyclone’s landfall and resultant destruction highlight the ongoing need for preparation and resilience-building in the face of extreme weather, requiring coordinated efforts between local governments, humanitarian organizations, and international agencies.

The arrival of Cyclone Chido has resulted in severe impacts in Mozambique, particularly within Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. With hazardous winds and significant rainfall, the cyclone has caused damage to infrastructure and disruption of services. Humanitarian responses are underway, focusing on providing essential supplies to those affected. The lingering effects of Chido are expected to extend into neighboring regions, reinforcing the urgent need for efficient disaster management and preparedness measures in Southern Africa.

Original Source: allafrica.com