Tropical Cyclone Chido: Impacts and Preparedness Efforts in Southern Africa

Tropical Cyclone Chido has affected Mayotte and the Comoros, with expectations of heavy rainfall and strong winds impacting approximately 2.5 million people in its projected path. As it moves towards Northern Mozambique, emergency preparedness and assessments are ongoing, with notable impacts already reported in affected regions.

As of December 14, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has significantly impacted Mayotte and the Comoros, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall with the potential for flooding and mudslides. Approximately 2.5 million individuals reside in areas projected to be affected by the cyclone, including more than 1.7 million in Mozambique, 440,000 in Malawi, and nearly 370,000 in the Comoros. Despite passing close to Madagascar with no reported damages or casualties, the cyclone remains a serious threat as it shifts toward Northern Mozambique, where landfall is expected on December 15.

The impact from Cyclone Chido has prompted emergency responses in the affected regions. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, issuing advisories and conducting loss assessments. In Mayotte, conditions are anticipated to improve later in the day, while in the Comoros, notable damage has been reported, particularly in Anjouan, where five houses were destroyed amid other damages. Mozambique is bracing for dangerous sea conditions and heavy rains, leading to preparations for possible hurricane conditions.

In response to the cyclone’s threat, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) has activated its situation room to provide daily updates and recommendations to member states. These include intensifying public awareness and ensuring the prepositioning of relief supplies. In the Comoros, a cyclone warning has been issued, with the National Meteorological Service encouraging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions.

Tropical Cyclone Chido, having formed in the southeastern Indian Ocean, has been classified as a highly intense cyclone, expected to cause significant hazards to millions in Southern Africa. The cyclone’s trajectory is putting a substantial population at risk, with Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros among the most threatened countries. Local meteorological services and international organizations are working collaboratively to mitigate the cyclone’s anticipated effects through preparedness and timely responses.

Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a serious threat to millions in Southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. As the storm approaches its expected landfall, regional authorities have mobilized resources and initiated emergency protocols to protect life and property. Continuous monitoring and public awareness efforts are critical as the current conditions threaten to exacerbate flooding and other hazardous impacts across the region.

Original Source: reliefweb.int