Tropical Cyclone Chido’s Impact on Southern Africa: Overview and Implications
Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, 2024, causing extreme winds and heavy rains. The storm posed serious threats to over 1.7 million people in Mozambique and 440,000 in Malawi. Relief efforts are underway by the UN and partners to assist in preparedness and response as the cyclone’s remnants spread into southern Africa, leading to concerns over future flooding and mudslides.
On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique as a powerful category 4 cyclone, approximately 35-40 kilometers south of Pemba in Cabo Delgado Province. The cyclone brought destructive winds reaching 260 km/h and heavy rainfall of up to 250 mm within 24 hours, instigating severe risks of coastal submersions in several provinces. As the cyclone progresses, over 1.7 million individuals in Mozambique and an additional 440,000 in Malawi are anticipated to be affected by its remnants, which will likely bring intense weather to southern Malawi from December 15 to 16. The United Nations and partner organizations are mobilizing resources to support governmental preparedness efforts.
Tropical Cyclone Chido emerged in early December 2024 and escalated into a category 4 cyclone shortly before landfall in Mozambique. It follows a trajectory that affects multiple regions, forecasting heavy rainfall and strong winds over Mozambique, southern Malawi, and eventually Zimbabwe. Past events, such as the precipitation forecasts and damage reports from islands in the Comoros, illustrate the need for vigilant monitoring of this powerful weather system due to the potential of flash floods and mudslides in surrounding areas.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has significantly impacted northern Mozambique, with substantial threats extending into Malawi and Zimbabwe. The UN and associated agencies are actively providing support to mitigate the cyclone’s effects. With millions at risk, ongoing assessments and preparations are crucial in safeguarding the affected populations from further devastation as the cyclone’s remnants move inland.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
