Cyclone Chido Devastates Mozambique, Leaving 34 Dead and Thousands Displaced
Cyclone Chido has caused significant devastation in Mozambique, leading to 34 confirmed deaths and widespread destruction of infrastructure. Thousands have been displaced, with heavy rains and strong winds continuing to pose risks. The humanitarian response is ongoing as authorities assess the full impact and seek to provide aid to affected communities.
Cyclone Chido has tragically resulted in at least 34 fatalities following its destructive path across Mozambique, as reported by the National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management on Tuesday. The cyclone made landfall earlier this week, displacing thousands and inflicting severe damage on infrastructure such as homes and roads. Initial casualties were confirmed in the northern province of Nampula, and efforts to assess the full impact of the cyclone continue.
Despite a reduction in intensity, Chido still poses a risk, with persistent heavy rains and strong winds reported. Luisa Meque, President of the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction, urged for heightened vigilance and adherence to safety measures in the affected provinces of Tete and Niassa. She also emphasized the importance of community engagement in disseminating information and ensuring timely assistance reaches those in need.
As Chido progresses through Mozambique, it has now been downgraded to a severe storm. The cyclone initially struck Cabo Delgado province, resulting in 28 of the first reported deaths, with additional fatalities occurring in Nampula and Niassa. More than 319 individuals sustained injuries, and approximately 175,000 people have been adversely affected, with nearly 23,600 homes and 170 fishing boats destroyed.
This extreme weather event marks one of the worst cyclones to impact the region in a decade, having initially impacted Mayotte, where casualties are feared to be in the hundreds. Additionally, concern exists regarding the storm’s potential continuation into Malawi and its impending dissipation near Zimbabwe. Organizations such as Save the Children have expressed deep concern for children and families in the cyclone’s wake, highlighting the risks posed to their safety, access to basic needs, and overall well-being.
Cyclone Chido is a severe tropical storm that has significantly impacted Mozambique, particularly the northern regions, which are accustomed to such weather conditions yet remain vulnerable due to socio-economic challenges. The cyclone made landfall after impacting the Indian Ocean island of Mayotte and is reported to have caused widespread destruction, displacing thousands and leading to multiple fatalities. Humanitarian agencies are raising alarms about the potential long-term impacts on communities, especially vulnerable populations such as children.
In summary, Cyclone Chido has resulted in at least 34 deaths and extensive destruction across Mozambique, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and community preparedness. Authorities have called for increased vigilance and support for the recovery efforts in the aftermath of the cyclone, which has affected tens of thousands of individuals and severely damaged vital infrastructure. Continued monitoring and timely assistance are paramount as Chido dissipates and the region grapples with its aftermath.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
