Red Cross Responds to Cyclone Chido, Enhancing Preparedness for Future Storms

Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique, causing extensive damage across several countries. Approximately 622,000 people in Mozambique are affected, with significant infrastructure destruction reported. The IFRC has launched an Emergency Appeal to provide essential aid and enhance community preparedness for future storms.

The onset of the South-West Indian Ocean tropical cyclone season has been marked by the devastation caused by cyclone Chido, which made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2024. This cyclone unleashed heavy rains and powerful winds across Madagascar, Comoros, Mozambique, Mayotte, and Malawi, leading to significant loss of life and destruction of homes and vital infrastructures such as roads and communication systems.

As initial assessments are underway, Naemi Heita, the Head of the IFRC Country Cluster Delegation for Mozambique and Angola, expressed concern for the affected populations, noting, “As assessments are still ongoing to determine the full extent of the damage, the emerging needs of affected people include shelter, food, potable water, and health services, among others.” The preliminary estimates indicate that approximately 622,000 individuals in Mozambique have been impacted, with over 130,000 shelters either damaged or completely destroyed. In Comoros, more than 64,000 people have suffered losses, and in Malawi, over 45,000 individuals have been affected.

In response to this crisis, Red Cross teams are actively engaged on the ground to facilitate rescue operations and assist the impacted communities. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has initiated an Emergency Appeal to mitigate the catastrophic effects of cyclone Chido, aiming to raise 10 million Swiss francs to provide aid to 100,000 individuals across Mozambique, Madagascar, Comoros, and Malawi. This comprehensive response strategy includes distributing essential household items, cash assistance, and extending support for livelihood restoration and healthcare services.

Furthermore, the appeal not only addresses immediate relief needs but also aims to bolster community preparedness for the remainder of the cyclone season, targeting approximately 500,000 individuals in vulnerable regions. Key initiatives consist of enhancing early warning systems, pre-positioning necessary emergency supplies, and training volunteers in disaster preparedness and response tactics.

Cyclones are a recurrent threat in the South-West Indian Ocean, particularly affecting countries like Mozambique and nearby nations. The recent cyclone season began with cyclone Chido, which has highlighted the vulnerabilities of these nations, particularly in terms of infrastructure and emergency response capabilities. Past experiences and historical data indicate that such cyclonic events have resulted in severe humanitarian crises, necessitating robust disaster preparedness frameworks. The IFRC plays a pivotal role in coordinating disaster response efforts, ensuring that aid reaches those most affected by natural disasters.

In summary, cyclone Chido has inflicted widespread damage across multiple countries in the South-West Indian Ocean region, displacing thousands and requiring urgent humanitarian assistance. As initial assessments reveal the extent of the devastation, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has launched an Emergency Appeal for support. This initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also aims to strengthen community resilience against future cyclones through preparation and proactive measures.

Original Source: reliefweb.int