Cyclone Chido has caused at least 34 deaths and extensive destruction in Mozambique, displacing thousands and damaging infrastructure. The cyclone initially struck Cabo Delgado and has been downgraded to a severe storm. Continued vigilance is required as relief efforts unfold, and widespread impacts on vulnerable populations, particularly children, are reported.
Cyclone Chido has tragically claimed the lives of at least 34 individuals and caused extensive destruction across Mozambique, as reported by the National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management (INGD) on Tuesday. The cyclone made landfall earlier this week, resulting in thousands being displaced and significant damage to infrastructure, including homes and roads. The initial casualties were reported in the province of Nampula, where the president of INGD confirmed the deaths during a visit to the affected areas.
In light of the cyclone’s ongoing impact, INGD President Luisa Meque has urged residents in the provinces of Tete and Niassa to remain vigilant and heed warnings regarding the storm’s development. Although the cyclone has weakened, it continues to bring heavy rains and strong winds. Meque emphasized the importance of community awareness and the urgency of ensuring that assistance reaches those in need.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) also reported preliminary fatalities, with EU humanitarian agencies calling for aid. As Cyclone Chido progresses, it has been downgraded from a cyclone to a severe storm. Initially striking Cabo Delgado, the cyclone resulted in 28 fatalities in that province, along with additional deaths recorded in Nampula and Niassa. The storm has injured approximately 319 individuals, destroyed nearly 23,600 homes and 170 fishing boats, and affected around 175,000 people.
Chido has significantly impacted northern Mozambique, an area already vulnerable due to conflict and underdevelopment. The cyclone followed a destructive path through Mayotte, where it is feared to have resulted in numerous fatalities. Relief efforts in Mayotte have intensified as the overall death toll from Cyclone Chido is anticipated to increase. The cyclone also posed risks to Malawi, and authorities are on alert for heavy rains in Zimbabwe as it dissipates.
Organizations such as Save the Children have reported that approximately 650,000 children and their families are endangered due to the cyclone, with dire consequences for their homes, access to clean water, medical assistance, and education.
Cyclone Chido represents one of the most severe weather events to affect Mozambique in a decade, causing widespread devastation across several provinces. Mozambique, frequently subject to cyclonic activity, has struggled with vulnerabilities due to ongoing conflicts and development challenges. The current crisis emphasizes the need for robust disaster response mechanisms, as well as international aid and local community resilience to mitigate the impacts of such disasters in the future.
In conclusion, Cyclone Chido has wrought significant devastation across Mozambique, resulting in numerous fatalities and extensive infrastructure damage. With relief efforts ongoing and communities urged to remain vigilant, the situation underscores the vulnerability of the region to natural disasters. Continued support and attention are crucial as affected populations navigate the aftermath of this tragic event.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
