Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused significant impact in Mayotte and the Comoros as of December 14, 2024, affecting approximately 2.5 million people in its path. The forecast predicts severe weather conditions, with landfall expected in Mozambique on December 15. Authorities are mobilizing resources and conducting assessments to mitigate the cyclone’s potential destruction and ensure the safety of affected communities.
As of December 14, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has unleashed significant devastation across Mayotte and the Comoros, bringing with it strong winds and heavy rainfall that could potentially lead to flooding and mudslides. Approximately 2.5 million individuals are situated in the cyclone’s forecast path, with over 1.7 million in Mozambique alone. Reports indicate damage to infrastructure in the Comoros, but fortunately, there have been no significant casualties thus far. Weather advisories have been issued across affected nations as assessments of the damage and loss continue.
Chido is anticipated to maintain its dangerous status as it traverses the northern Mozambique Channel, with landfall expected on December 15 in northern Mozambique near Cabo Delgado Province. In Mayotte, heavy winds and flooding have been reported, and preliminary damage assessments are ongoing. The severity of Cyclone Chido has drawn comparisons to historical cyclones, further enhancing the urgency of the emergency response. In Mozambique, authorities are preparing for devastating rainfall and winds, while neighboring countries, including Malawi and Zambia, are also monitoring the situation closely.
Regional response efforts include the issuance of advisories and the mobilization of resources to conditionally manage the evolving situation. Collaboration among humanitarian partners is ongoing, with prepositioning of relief supplies and initiation of impact-based assessments to mitigate the cyclone’s effects. Moreover, operating centers have been activated, particularly in Malawi, to facilitate a structured response to the expected challenges posed by Chido’s impact.
Tropical Cyclone Chido developed in the southeastern Indian Ocean and gained strength, becoming a Category 4 cyclone before weakening to Category 3. As it approached the shores of Mayotte and the Comoros, it disrupted normal weather patterns and posed a significant threat to communities in its path. The forecast indicates that Chido could lead to extensive rainfall exceeding 150 mm, exacerbating the risk of flash floods and mudslides across multiple nations, notably Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. By assessing previous storm impacts in the region, authorities have initiated significant preparedness efforts to safeguard populations and minimize damage. Cyclone preparedness is critical, especially given the large number of individuals living in vulnerable areas. Governments and regional organizations have put in place measures to ensure public safety and readiness for emergency response, with a concerted focus on maintaining communication and early warnings among affected communities.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido presents a serious threat to millions in southern Africa, primarily impacting Mozambique, Mayotte, and the Comoros. Current weather forecasts predict heavy rains and strong winds, with the potential for significant flooding and other associated hazards. Authorities are actively engaged in damage assessment and resource mobilization while implementing emergency protocols across the region. The cyclone’s effects will continue to be closely monitored as regional cooperation and preparedness efforts are crucial to managing the aftermath effectively.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
