Impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido on Southern Africa: Update as of December 18, 2024

Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused major devastation in Southern Africa, particularly affecting Mozambique and Malawi. Responsibility for 45 deaths in Mozambique and 13 in Malawi, the cyclone impacted 184,000 individuals and has resulted in significant infrastructural damage. Emergency assessments and humanitarian responses are currently underway to meet urgent needs.

As of December 18, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused significant devastation in Southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique and Malawi. The cyclone made landfall on December 15, resulting in 45 fatalities in Mozambique, with Cabo Delgado and Nampula being the most affected provinces. Approximately 184,000 individuals have been impacted by the cyclone, with extensive damage to infrastructure, including over 35,000 homes, 48 health centers, and 149 schools. In Malawi, 45,162 people have also been affected, with 13 reported deaths to date. Emergency assessments and the distribution of essential supplies are ongoing within the impacted regions.

The cyclone formed in the southeastern Indian Ocean Basin, escalating to a Category 4 storm before weakening to Category 3. Following its landfall in Mozambique, Chido passed through Malawi and re-entered Mozambique before dissipating near Zimbabwe. The wind speeds of up to 260 km/h and heavy rainfall reaching 250 mm within a short timeframe have contributed to severe flooding and destruction, necessitating urgent humanitarian interventions.

Tropical Cyclone Chido has emerged as a devastating weather event significantly affecting countries across Southern Africa. Developed in early December, the cyclone intensified as it traversed the Indian Ocean, leading to its landfall in Mozambique. Its impact has been felt particularly in regions already struggling with prior humanitarian challenges, highlighting the vulnerability of these areas to natural disasters. The response efforts of humanitarian organizations aim to assess needs and deliver critical resources to the affected populations, amidst the ongoing challenges posed by adverse weather conditions.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has inflicted severe losses and widespread disruption across Southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique and Malawi. The combined death toll stands at 58 as of December 18, with substantial humanitarian needs emerging in light of the extensive damage. Immediate interventions are critical to assist affected communities, restore infrastructure, and facilitate recovery efforts in the wake of this catastrophic event.

Original Source: reliefweb.int