Tropical Cyclone Chido’s Impact on Southern Africa as of December 15, 2024
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2024, unleashing destructive winds and heavy rains, impacting 1.7 million in Mozambique and 440,000 in Malawi. As the cyclone dissipates near Zimbabwe, heightened rainfall and flood risks are expected across the region. Initial damages reported in Mozambique, with continued monitoring and humanitarian efforts ongoing.
On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique as a Category 4 storm, impacting coastal areas with wind speeds reaching 260 km/h and heavy rainfall of up to 250 mm in just 24 hours. This cyclone is affecting over 1.7 million people in Mozambique and 440,000 in Malawi, with its remnants forecasted to bring additional heavy rain and strong winds to southern Malawi and later dissipate near Zimbabwe on December 17. Initial reports indicate damage in Nampula, where completed assessments are pending, while communication disruptions have been noted in Pemba. The cyclone has also caused flooding and infrastructure damage in the Comoros, with casualties and displacements reported. Extensive rainfall over the following days poses the risk of flash floods and mudslides across a broader region in southern Africa, underscoring the severe humanitarian implications of this natural disaster.
Tropical Cyclone Chido originated as a tropical depression in the South-Eastern Indian Ocean Basin on December 7, 2024, and intensified into a Category 4 cyclone by December 10 before weakening again to Category 3. Landfall occurred in Mozambique, affecting various provinces and displacing residents, while the cyclone’s remnants are poised to impact neighboring Malawi and other regions with significant rainfall forecasts. These weather phenomena highlight the vulnerability of Southern Africa to tropical cyclones and the resulting humanitarian challenges, necessitating swift responses from entities such as the United Nations and regional partners.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a critical threat to millions in southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique and Malawi. The extensive wind and rainfall associated with this storm have already resulted in significant damages, disrupting lives and infrastructure. Continued monitoring and swift emergency responses are necessary to mitigate the adverse effects of this cyclone and protect vulnerable populations.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
