Destruction Wrought by Tropical Cyclone Chido in Southern Africa

Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, bringing wind speeds of 80 km/h and over 250 mm of rain, causing considerable damage to homes and infrastructure. Communication and power outages are affecting residents’ ability to stay informed and seek help. Chido is moving into Malawi and is expected to impact Zimbabwe, with ongoing weather assessments recommended for local residents.

Tropical Cyclone Chido has struck Mozambique on December 15, delivering destructive winds reaching 80 km/h, severe thunderstorms, and rainfall surpassing 250 mm within a 24-hour period. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) reports substantial damage, including over 5,800 destroyed homes and the partial damage of 41 classrooms, leaving approximately 2,500 families without essential services. The numbers are anticipated to rise as assessments continue.

Residents in Pemba are facing challenges with intermittent mobile communication and prolonged power outages, leading to residents conserving battery life for critical phone calls. Chido had previously impacted Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, where it caused extensive destruction as a Category 4 cyclone, with wind speeds exceeding 220 km/h.

With its current trajectory, Chido is moving inland towards Malawi, still exhibiting moderate storm characteristics, resulting in strong winds and rainfall estimated between 100 to 150 mm. The cyclone is anticipated to return to Mozambique before dissipating near Zimbabwe by December 17. Citizens in both Mozambique and Malawi are urged to stay updated on weather developments through their national meteorological services.

The Southern African region has faced multiple tropical cyclones in recent years, which have exacerbated challenges related to infrastructure, housing, and essential services. Tropical Cyclone Chido represents a significant weather event that commenced its destructive path in Mayotte before affecting Mozambique and potentially neighboring countries such as Malawi and Zimbabwe. These cyclones are of increasing concern due to their capacity to cause widespread damage and disrupt communities.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has resulted in severe destruction across Mozambique and Mayotte, with numerous homes and educational facilities compromised, and significant impacts on local communities evidenced by power outages and communication difficulties. The cyclonic system’s progression towards Malawi and Zimbabwe necessitates vigilance and preparedness among affected residents as assessments continue to determine the extent of the devastation.

Original Source: www.vaticannews.va