Death Toll from Cyclone Chido in Mozambique Reaches 120

Cyclone Chido’s death toll in Mozambique has risen to 120, with nearly 900 injured and widespread damage to homes and infrastructure. The cyclone first struck Mayotte, causing 35 deaths, and affected other regions including Malawi, where 13 fatalities were reported. Urgent aid is needed for the impacted areas.

The death toll from Cyclone Chido in Mozambique has tragically increased to 120, as reported by the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD). The cyclone, classified as a category 4 storm, made landfall on December 15, unleashing wind speeds of up to 260 kilometers per hour (160 mph) accompanied by 250 mm of rainfall within the initial 24 hours. In addition to the fatalities, nearly 900 individuals have sustained injuries, and many have been rendered homeless due to extensive damage to homes and vital infrastructure, including schools and health centers.

Cyclone Chido first impacted the French overseas territory of Mayotte on December 14, causing severe destruction with wind speeds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour (136 mph). The cyclone’s passage has not only contributed to casualties in Mozambique, but it has also affected the neighboring regions, including Madagascar, Comoros, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. In Malawi specifically, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) reported that Chido resulted in 13 deaths and 29 injuries, alongside significant damage to local infrastructure and housing.

The continued assessment of the damages caused by Cyclone Chido underscores the severe impact that natural disasters can inflict on communities. The increase in fatalities and injuries calls for urgent humanitarian assistance to support the affected populations in Mozambique and beyond. It highlights the need for improved disaster management strategies to mitigate future risks.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr