Tropical Storm Chido Claims Lives and Causes Widespread Disruption in Malawi
Tropical Storm Chido has killed at least seven people in Malawi and affected over 30,000 individuals, with additional fatalities reported in Mozambique. The storm caused significant infrastructure damage, leading to a humanitarian response from local and international organizations. Classrooms in Malawi have resumed, and authorities continue to monitor the weather for potential further developments.
Tropical Storm Chido has tragically resulted in the deaths of at least seven individuals in Malawi, with more than 30,000 people adversely affected. According to a preliminary assessment from the Malawi Department of Disaster Management Affairs, the storm caused widespread destruction, displacing 7,721 households and impacting a total of 34,741 residents. Among the fatalities, three occurred in the Salima district, while the districts of Kasungu, Machinga, Blantyre, and Lilongwe each recorded one loss.
Additionally, the storm led to 16 reported injuries and caused significant damage to infrastructure, including schools and health facilities, as well as numerous homes. Tropical Cyclone Chido originated northeast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean and made landfall near Nacala, Mozambique, on Sunday, inflicting further devastation in Mozambique and the Comoros archipelago. The storm’s remnants then impacted Malawi on Monday, producing heavy rains and flooding across 17 districts, especially in the southern region.
The director of the Malawi Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, Lucy Mtilatila, commented on the current status of the storm, stating, “Our eyes are on the Indian Ocean in case there will be another development. But so far, so good.” Following the storm, school classes that had been suspended for safety precautions have resumed, and the disaster agency has concluded its search and rescue operations, redirecting efforts toward providing necessary relief to affected populations alongside various humanitarian partners.
Tropical Storm Chido, which emerged from the Indian Ocean, significantly impacted multiple regions in southeastern Africa. Its trajectory began with strong effects in Mozambique, where it rendered over 174,000 people vulnerable due to damages to infrastructure and shelter. Following its landfall in Mozambique, the storm continued its path into Malawi, resulting in severe weather conditions, including heavy rains and flooding, particularly affecting southern districts. Government and humanitarian agencies are now focused on disaster response and recovery efforts.
In summary, Tropical Storm Chido has tragically taken the lives of at least seven individuals in Malawi and affected over 30,000 others. The storm caused substantial damage to infrastructure, prompting local agencies to shift from search and rescue operations to relief efforts. With ongoing assessments and a focus on further weather developments in the Indian Ocean, recovery efforts will be essential to support the affected populations in Malawi and neighboring areas.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
