Tropical Cyclone Chido: Impact and Response in Southern Africa as of December 2024
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on 15 December 2024, causing extensive damage with strong winds and heavy rain. Over 24,102 people have been affected, with emergency funds allocated for relief efforts. The cyclone is expected to dissipate by 17 December as it moves towards Zimbabwe, while multiple southern African nations face potential flooding from its residual rainfall.
On 15 December 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique and subsequently moved into Malawi, causing significant disruption through powerful winds and heavy rainfall. Wind gusts reached up to 80 km/h, accompanied by over 250 mm of rainfall within 24 hours. Initial reports indicate at least one fatality, 35 injuries, and substantial damage affecting more than 24,102 individuals across 4,835 families. The cyclone has also damaged over 5,800 homes, jeopardized educational facilities, and caused power outages, impacting 2,500 families. Emergency relief efforts are ongoing, with the Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, allocating $4 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund for immediate assistance to those affected.
The immediate aftermath of Cyclone Chido identifies Cabo Delgado as the most severely impacted province, particularly in areas like Mecufi, where blocked roads have hindered access for assessments. National meteorological agencies have reported continued rainfall and strong winds in Cabo Delgado and Niassa provinces, while Pemba remains particularly vulnerable, with approximately 150,000 citizens needing urgent aid. Additionally, as Chido progressed inland into Malawi, it has affected around 1,800 households, highlighting widespread infrastructure damage, including schools and health facilities.
The cyclone’s path has raised concerns regarding further rainfall across multiple southern African countries, such as Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Angola, posing risks for flash floods and mudslides. The development of Tropical Depression Chido occurred on 7 December 2024, reaching Category 4 before weakening to Category 3. As the storm moves towards Zimbabwe, it is expected to dissipate by 17 December.
Tropical Cyclone Chido represents a significant meteorological event impacting Southern Africa, particularly Mozambique and Malawi. Cyclones in this region are characterized by heavy rainfall, strong winds, and severe weather conditions which often lead to human casualties and infrastructural damage. The southern portions of Africa are frequently vulnerable to such weather patterns, resulting in various humanitarian crises following these occurrences. Relief efforts are critical in addressing the immediate needs of the affected populations and managing long-term recovery solutions.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused substantial devastation in Mozambique and Malawi, affecting tens of thousands of individuals and resulting in significant infrastructural damage. Emergency response teams are working to assess the situation and provide relief, supported by international funding. Continued weather threats necessitate vigilance as Chido proceeds over the region, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by affected communities in the aftermath of natural disasters.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
