Tropical Cyclone Chido Devastates Mozambique: Humanitarian Update December 2024

Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2024, causing severe rainfall and wind damage, affecting over 174,000 people, and leading to at least 34 deaths. The cyclone primarily impacted Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces, with ongoing humanitarian efforts hindered by limited resources and significant infrastructure destruction. An emergency relief budget of $4 million has been allocated to support immediate response activities.

On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique, delivering heavy rainfall and strong winds with significant impacts across various provinces. The cyclone moved into Malawi and Tete province before dissipating near Zimbabwe on December 17. The worst affected areas include Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa, with reports of at least 174,000 individuals impacted, 34 fatalities, and widespread destruction of infrastructure. Immediate response efforts have been hampered by limited supplies and ongoing assessments are likely to increase the reported figures of those affected.

Cabo Delgado saw catastrophic damage, particularly in districts such as Mecufi and Chiure, leaving nearly all homes destroyed and severely impacting health services and essential infrastructure. In Chiure, approximately 60% of homes lost roofs and urgent needs for water and medical supplies have arisen. Importantly, protection efforts for vulnerable populations, including women and children, are a critical priority amidst rising concerns surrounding civil documentation and safety in evacuation centers.

Nampula Province has also reported considerable destruction, affecting an estimated 46,000 individuals and increasing fears of a choleral outbreak worsened by the heavy rains. Most notably, Memba and Erati districts were declared the most affected. In Niassa, damage and casualties were recorded, with immediate assistance being directed towards shelter and healthcare needs.

As emergency relief efforts initiate, a budget of $4 million has been allocated by the Emergency Relief Coordinator to support immediate humanitarian actions. Various international agencies continue to assess the situation and mobilize resources to address urgent needs, including food, shelter, health services, and protection measures for displaced persons.

The occurrence of Tropical Cyclone Chido in December 2024 caused significant humanitarian concerns in Mozambique. Cyclones are a recurring natural disaster in this region, known for their catastrophic effects on local populations and infrastructure. Following Chido’s landfall, meteorological assessments reported extraordinarily high rainfall, compounding existing vulnerabilities and leading to infrastructure collapse. Amidst these challenges, various humanitarian organizations have initiated response mechanisms to aid affected communities while addressing long-term recovery needs.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido has had devastating effects on Mozambique, with tens of thousands affected, fatalities reported, and extensive damage to infrastructure. The immediate humanitarian response will be critical in addressing food, shelter, healthcare, and safety needs as the situation evolves. Continued assessments will provide clarity on the full extent of the impact, and the international community’s support will be vital in promoting recovery and resilience in the affected regions.

Original Source: www.unocha.org