Tropical Cyclone Chido: A Humanitarian Crisis in the Southwest Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Chido has severely impacted the Southwest Indian Ocean region, leading to at least 142 confirmed deaths, widespread infrastructure damage, and affecting over 3 million people across Madagascar, Mozambique, Mayotte, and Malawi. The cyclone, which reached category 4 strength, necessitated significant humanitarian interventions and placed a spotlight on the importance of preparedness for future disasters.
Tropical Cyclone Chido, which commenced its destructive journey on 11 December as a category 4 storm in the Southwest Indian Ocean, has inflicted catastrophic damage across several nations. The cyclone achieved wind speeds of up to 220 km/h and has led to the fatalities of at least 142 individuals, with Mozambique bearing the brunt of this calamity, recording 94 deaths. In addition to Mozambique, the cyclone also impacted neighboring regions, including Mayotte with 35 deaths and Malawi with 13.
Madagascar was the initial country to feel Chido’s wrath, with the storm’s path crossing near its northern tip, affecting an estimated 135,838 individuals. Authorities promptly issued warnings and initiated evacuations to mitigate the impact of heavy rains and flooding caused by the cyclone.
The Comoros Islands declared a week of mourning as the cyclone ravaged Anjouan and Moheli, where it affected over 64,000 individuals and resulted in significant agricultural losses. Approximately 45% of crops were reported as impacted, while numerous schools and homes suffered extensive damage.
In Mayotte, the cyclone severely affected around 230,000 individuals, with roughly 70% of its population experiencing some form of impact. Damage to vital infrastructure, including approximately 35,000 homes and the main hospital, has led to a humanitarian emergency, with many individuals displaced and seeking shelter in inadequate conditions.
Mozambique is facing one of the worst disasters recorded, with around 622,000 individuals affected, especially in Cabo Delgado where nearly 510,000 residents have suffered severe damage. In Malawi, nearly 45,000 individuals have been stranded due to the aftermath of Cyclone Chido.
Currently, assessments are being conducted to determine the full damage sustained, while National Societies of the Red Cross and Red Crescent are actively involved in providing emergency relief efforts. This situation emphasizes the necessity for heightened disaster preparedness and resilience in facing future cyclones. An Emergency Appeal has been established to mobilize resources and provide humanitarian assistance, targeting better readiness among National Societies and support for affected communities for the remainder of the cyclone season.
The Southwest Indian Ocean has recently witnessed increased cyclonic activity, beginning with Tropical Cyclone Chido, which has had significant repercussions on several countries. With forecasters predicting an above-average cyclone season, Cyclone Chido’s initial formation escalated rapidly, demonstrating severe winds and central pressure and subsequently wreaking havoc in its path. The cyclone showcased how vulnerable regions are to natural disasters, prompting urgent humanitarian efforts and highlighting the relevance of preparedness strategies.
Tropical Cyclone Chido represents a grave humanitarian crisis affecting multiple countries within the Southwest Indian Ocean, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life. Emergency relief operations are ongoing, with significant efforts coordinated by humanitarian organizations. The cyclone’s effects underline the urgent need for effective disaster management and community resilience strategies to better prepare for future tropical storms.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
