Cyclone Chido has killed at least 34 people and injured 43 in Mozambique, affecting approximately 2.5 million individuals. Most notably, Cabo Delgado province endured extensive damage, with nearly all homes destroyed. The cyclone continues to impact surrounding areas with residual rains and strong winds. Mozambique remains vulnerable to climate change, facing cyclical floods and storms, particularly as a potential La Nina effect looms on the horizon.
In the wake of Cyclone Chido, which struck Mozambique on Sunday and Monday, a reported 34 individuals have perished, and 43 others sustained injuries. Luisa Meque, head of Mozambique’s National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction, indicated that the figures remain preliminary as rescue operations progress throughout the affected regions. Approximately 2.5 million individuals have been impacted by this cyclone, with Cabo Delgado province, including its capital Pemba, suffering extensive devastation.
The cyclone made landfall in Mecufi, a district within Cabo Delgado province, where nearly all homes were damaged, with reports indicating that 100% of structures were affected. Canjar Amade recounted his harrowing experience, stating, “the wind took the sheets off during the night, and the house fell down Monday morning.” Meteorologist Acacio Tembe highlighted that areas such as Niassa and Cabo Delgado are still dealing with the cyclone’s remnants, comprising persistent rains and gusty winds. Furthermore, the storm has also impacted neighboring Malawi and the island of Mayotte, with it anticipated to dissipate near Zimbabwe by late Tuesday.
Mozambique is notably vulnerable to the implications of climate change, routinely experiencing severe weather events during its rainy season, which spans from October to April. Experts caution that the onset of a potential La Nina effect could exacerbate the frequency and severity of heavy rainfall and tropical cyclones in southern Africa by early 2025. In regions presently suffering from drought, floods are anticipated to occur, adding to the humanitarian crisis.
Cyclones are common in Mozambique, particularly during the rainy season, which exacerbates the challenges faced due to climate change. The country frequently endures severe weather events such as flooding and tropical cyclones. The effects of climate change have made Mozambique one of the most affected nations, indicating that the frequency and strength of these weather events are likely to rise significantly. As such, understanding the immediate impacts of Cyclone Chido is crucial to grasping the broader implications for the nation and its people.
In conclusion, Cyclone Chido has tragically resulted in 34 fatalities and numerous injuries while impacting approximately 2.5 million people across Mozambique. The cyclone’s ramifications are particularly severe in Cabo Delgado province, where nearly complete destruction of infrastructure has been reported. As Mozambique faces an increased likelihood of further severe weather due to climate change, effective disaster management and robust preparation strategies will be vital in mitigating future disasters.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
