Tropical Cyclone Chido: Impact and Response Update as of December 2024

Tropical Cyclone Chido has impacted over 274,000 people across Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros, resulting in severe damage and numerous fatalities. As it weakens into a depression, ongoing assessments and urgent humanitarian assistance are needed in the hardest-hit areas. The cyclone has highlighted the vulnerability of these regions to extreme weather and necessitates enhanced emergency preparedness.

As of 17 December 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has inflicted severe damages across Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros, affecting over 274,000 individuals collectively. In Mozambique, the cyclone made landfall on 15 December, resulting in winds up to 260 km/h, substantial rainfall, and the destruction of numerous homes. This disaster has led to 34 fatalities and hundreds more injured, in addition to significant infrastructural damages. Field teams are deployed to provide urgent support in the worst-hit regions while assessments continue to ascertain the full impact of the disaster.

Following its weakening to a depression, Chido has moved inland, crossing regions of Mozambique and heading toward Zimbabwe where it is expected to completely dissipate. The most adversely impacted areas include Cabo Delgado Province, particularly Mecufi, Chiure, and Pemba, where issues with electricity and internet connectivity are hampering recovery efforts. Protection concerns are rising due to the lack of civil documentation services amidst the ongoing crisis.

In Malawi, reports indicate that 34,741 individuals have been affected, with a tragic toll of 7 lives lost across various districts. The Comoros have declared a national mourning period due to the cyclone’s effects on Mayotte, with notable casualties and displacements reported. In Mayotte, Chido delivered unprecedented wind speeds, leading to significant destruction of housing and infrastructure, impacting emergency response efforts and leaving many without essential services.

Despite the cyclone’s weakening in intensity, it continues to pose risks, including heavy rainfall across multiple regions in southern Africa. The Southern African Development Community has advised at-risk areas to remain vigilant for flash flooding and landslides.

Tropical Cyclone Chido, which developed in early December 2024, has traversed significant portions of Southern Africa, causing widespread devastation. After impacting Madagascar briefly, it made landfall in Mozambique, where it resulted in catastrophic damage to homes, schools, and health facilities. The storm’s progression led it through Malawi and into the Comoros, where historical levels of wind and rain were recorded. The cyclone highlights the ongoing risks faced by communities in the region due to climate change and natural disasters, which necessitate enhanced preparedness and response measures.

The aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido underscores the vulnerability of Southern Africa to extreme weather events. With over 274,000 individuals affected, the urgent need for comprehensive humanitarian assistance and infrastructural support is clear. The ongoing assessments will help identify further needs and facilitate recovery, but immediate and effective responses are critical to mitigate the ongoing impacts of such devastating disasters.

Original Source: reliefweb.int