Impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Southern Africa

Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, causing severe destruction including the loss of over 5,800 homes. With winds reaching 80 km/h and over 250 mm of rainfall, the cyclone significantly disrupted communication in the area. After affecting Mayotte as a Category 4 cyclone, Chido continues to advance into Malawi before potentially dissipating near Zimbabwe.

Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, unleashing fierce winds and torrential rains, with gusts reaching up to 80 km/h and rainfall surpassing 250 mm within a 24-hour period. Reports indicate that the cyclone has devastated the region, resulting in the destruction of over 5,800 homes and partial damage to 41 classrooms, impacting approximately 2,500 families.

In Pemba, residents have reported that power outages and communication disruptions hinder their ability to seek assistance. Consequently, individuals are conserving battery life on their mobile devices to maintain emergency communications. Chido had previously ravaged the French territory of Mayotte, where it made landfall as a Category 4 Cyclone, leaving entire neighborhoods in ruins.

As of December 16, Chido continues to move inland towards Malawi, maintaining an intensity classified as a moderate tropical storm. Southern Malawi has experienced significant wind and rainfall, with projections indicating that the cyclone will eventually re-enter Mozambique and may dissipate near Zimbabwe by December 17. Authorities in Mozambique and Malawi have advised residents to stay updated through local meteorological services.

Tropical cyclones are severe weather events that can lead to significant destruction and loss of life. Cyclone Chido, as reported by various agencies, exemplified the impact of climate phenomena on Southern Africa, particularly in regions such as Mozambique and Malawi that are vulnerable to such storms. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) reported on the cyclone’s destructive path, reflecting the region’s ongoing struggles with extreme weather patterns due to climate change.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc in Southern Africa, especially in Mozambique and Mayotte. The cyclone’s powerful winds and heavy precipitation have caused extensive damage to homes, educational infrastructure, and local communications. With the storm projected to affect further areas including Malawi and possibly Zimbabwe, residents are advised to remain alert and seek information from official weather forecasts.

Original Source: www.vaticannews.va