Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on 15 December 2024, causing extensive damage, particularly in Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. The cyclone has resulted in 45 confirmed deaths and affected 184,000 individuals, with significant destruction of housing and infrastructure. Malawi reports 13 deaths and over 45,000 affected. Humanitarian aid is being mobilized to support recovery efforts.
As of 18 December 2024, the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido has been devastating, particularly in Mozambique where the death toll has escalated to 45 individuals, with a staggering 184,000 people affected. The provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula have suffered the most significant impacts, with reports indicating extensive destruction of infrastructure, including over 35,000 residential structures and numerous health facilities and schools. In Malawi, the cyclone’s impact has also been severe, resulting in 13 fatalities and over 45,000 individuals affected. Humanitarian aid organizations are actively engaged in assessment efforts and are distributing necessary supplies to support recovery in the affected regions.
The tropical depression known as Chido formed in the southeastern Indian Ocean in early December 2024 and developed into a powerful Category 4 cyclone before making landfall in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, on 15 December. This weather system brought with it destructive winds exceeding 260 km/h and substantial rainfall, causing widespread devastation across various locales and leading to the loss of life in multiple regions, including Mayotte, where over 20 deaths and considerable injuries were reported. The ongoing situation necessitates urgent humanitarian aid and recovery efforts to assist the affected populations and restore basic services.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido has had a catastrophic impact across Southern Africa, primarily affecting Mozambique and Malawi, with significant loss of life and destruction of infrastructure. The ongoing humanitarian response aims to alleviate the suffering of the affected populations while restoring essential services. Immediate priorities include providing food, water, sanitation, and shelter to help communities recover and rebuild in the wake of this natural disaster.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
