Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique as a category 4 storm on December 15, bringing destructive winds of up to 260km/h and heavy rainfall. Significant impacts were felt in Cabo Delgado and Nampula Provinces. UNICEF is responding to urgent needs caused by the cyclone, while remnants of the storm will affect southern Malawi and Zimbabwe in the coming days.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall on December 15, 2023, at approximately 6am, striking the coast of Mozambique near Pemba city in Cabo Delgado Province as a category 4 storm. The cyclone generated destructive winds of up to 260km per hour and heavy rainfall, measuring 250mm in 24 hours, severely affecting coastal regions and creating dangerous sea conditions. Initial reports from Nampula officials indicate damage to residential structures, while Pemba experienced disruptions in mobile network services, although some areas retained electricity.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) issued alerts regarding the potential for extensive damage to infrastructure, including power lines, as the cyclone’s winds could uproot trees and demolish buildings. In light of these developments, provinces such as Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia were advised to remain vigilant as adverse weather was anticipated later that day. UNICEF is actively assessing the situation in Cabo Delgado, with the intent to meet the urgent needs of affected children and families. Mary-Louise Eagleton, UNICEF Mozambique Representative, stated that lifesaving supplies, including medicines and water purification resources, are being distributed to ensure community health and safety.
Following its impact in Mozambique, Cyclone Chido’s remnants were expected to affect southern Malawi with heavy rainfall of 100mm and strong winds ranging from 80 to 100km per hour from December 15 to 16. By December 17, the system was projected to dissipate near Zimbabwe. Prior to making landfall in Mozambique, Chido passed near the Comoros islands, which reported minor injuries and infrastructure damage in Anjouan, with reports of crop destruction on Moheli island.
The recent occurrence of Cyclone Chido underscores the vulnerability of southern Africa to tropical storms, particularly in regions like Mozambique, which frequently grapple with severe weather conditions. The significance of timely interventions from humanitarian organizations, like UNICEF, emerges in response to natural disasters that exacerbate existing challenges faced by local communities. In addition, regional response coordination among countries like Malawi and Zimbabwe is crucial following the passage of such cyclones to mitigate further impacts on affected populations.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has made a significant and destructive impact upon Mozambique, particularly within the Cabo Delgado Province. With exceptionally strong winds and heavy rainfall, the cyclone poses serious risks to infrastructure and basic services. Humanitarian efforts, particularly from UNICEF, are vital to assisting those affected and providing necessary resources for recovery. Ongoing assessments and emergency responses are essential in the wake of such disasters to enhance resilience among communities in southern Africa.
Original Source: allafrica.com
