Tropical Cyclone Chido: Impact and Preparedness in Southern Africa
Tropical Cyclone Chido has impacted Mayotte and the Comoros, with severe weather conditions forecasted for Southern Africa. Approximately 2.5 million people are in its projected path, with significant risks of flooding and mudslides, particularly in Mozambique and Malawi. Authorities are actively issuing advisories and preparing for emergency responses, while impact assessments are ongoing in affected areas as Chido approaches Mozambique’s coastline.
As of December 14, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has significantly impacted the Mayotte and Comoros islands, providing cause for serious concern across Southern Africa due to imminent severe weather conditions. Chido, forecasted to produce intense winds and heavy rainfall, poses a serious risk for approximately 2.5 million people in its projected trajectory. This includes over 1.7 million individuals in Mozambique, 440,000 in Malawi, and nearly 370,000 in the Comoros, necessitating urgent actions from local and national authorities.
On December 13, Chido moved close to Madagascar’s northern coast, resulting in no reported damages or casualties; however, warnings remain in effect with unsettled weather conditions persisting. As authorities conduct impact assessments, preparations for potential flooding and mudslides are ongoing in the cyclone’s path.
The cyclone has already affected the Comoros islands, particularly Anjouan, where structural damage has been reported. Reports indicate that five houses were destroyed alongside damage to mosques and agricultural facilities. In Mozambique, the cyclone is expected to make landfall near Cabo Delgado Province, with damaging winds and heavy rain anticipated. Projections include rainfall amounts reaching 200 mm and wave heights of approximately 10 meters along affected coastlines.
Cyclone Chido developed as a tropical depression on December 7, 2024, advancing towards the west and subsequently escalating to Category 4 before stabilizing at Category 3. Continuous monitoring by the Southern African Development Community’s Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) has been activated, focusing on updates and alerts to ensure preparedness and rapid responses from various nations affected by the cyclone.
Advisories have been issued, urging local populations to remain vigilant and prepared for emergency evacuations if necessary. Collaborative efforts between governmental and non-governmental organizations are underway to ensure the swift distribution of relief supplies.
As of now, the trajectory of Cyclone Chido remains pronounced, with anticipated effects extending to southern Malawi and further rainfall expected across a broad region, including Zambia and Angola, raising the likelihood of flash floods.
Tropical Cyclone Chido is a significant atmospheric event, currently impacting regions in Southern Africa, particularly the Comoros, Mozambique, and Madagascar. This cyclone developed in early December 2024 and has been classified as a severe cyclone, showcasing characteristics that surpass previous cyclones experienced in the region. The preparedness efforts from governmental and humanitarian organizations are critical to mitigate the impending risks associated with Chido, including potential flooding and wind damage.
Tropical Cyclone Chido represents a serious threat to Southern Africa, prompting extensive response measures from local and national authorities. With millions at risk and significant preparations underway in affected regions, it is crucial for the preparedness plans and public advisories to be closely followed. Continuous monitoring of the cyclone’s progress will be essential in managing the impact and ensuring effective responses to meet the needs of affected populations.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
