Cyclone Chido, a Category 4 storm, struck Pemba, Mozambique on December 15 after causing extensive destruction in Mayotte. With winds exceeding 200 km/h, it is estimated to have affected around 1.7 million people in Mozambique. Organizations like UNICEF and the International Organization for Migration are coordinating responses, as the region grapples with the aftermath.
Cyclone Chido, a formidable Category 4 storm, made landfall in Pemba, the capital of Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province on December 15, following its destructive passage through the French overseas territory of Mayotte. The storm has already begun to affect parts of southern Malawi, resulting in anticipated threats of heavy rainfall, destructive winds, and potential flash floods. Agencies, including the Malawi Red Cross, are actively responding on the ground to assess the situation and provide necessary aid to those impacted.
Reports indicate that Cyclone Chido impacted approximately 1.7 million individuals in Mozambique, causing extensive damage due to wind speeds exceeding 200 km/h and heavy precipitation. The International Organization for Migration is coordinating early response efforts amid these challenging conditions. UNICEF has also expressed deep concern over the cyclone’s immediate and long-term repercussions on the vulnerable communities in the region, emphasizing the collaboration with local government and other partners to ensure an effective response.
Prior to reaching Mozambique, Cyclone Chido devastated the island territory of Mayotte, where widespread destruction occurred due to extreme winds, resulting in neighborhoods being flattened. The local prefect has indicated that the death toll may reach into the hundreds or even thousands, although accurate numbers are difficult to ascertain due to the traditional burial customs. This cyclone marks a historic intensity not experienced in Mayotte for over nine decades, making the damage unprecedented in the region’s recent history.
The phenomenon of tropical cyclones presents significant challenges to the regions they affect, particularly in countries like Mozambique and territories like Mayotte, where infrastructure and local economies can be severely impacted. Cyclone Chido serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability faced by these areas, often marked by high population density and socio-economic challenges. Understanding the scale of such calamities is crucial for governments and humanitarian organizations engaged in relief and recovery efforts. Cyclones of this magnitude can lead to long-lasting effects, prompting comprehensive response strategies to support affected communities.
In summary, Cyclone Chido has left a devastating impact in its wake as it has made landfall in Mozambique and caused significant destruction in Mayotte. With millions affected and the death toll potentially rising, immediate humanitarian interventions are crucial to mitigate the consequences of this natural disaster. Collaborative efforts by various organizations are underway to provide relief and assess ongoing needs in the aftermath of this catastrophic event.
Original Source: www.downtoearth.org.in
