Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique, causing severe wind and rain, particularly around Pemba. The storm has already destroyed homes and facilities, prompting UNICEF to assist those affected. Cyclone intensity remains high with forecasts predicting excessive rainfall and wind gusts.
Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique early on Sunday, unleashing powerful winds and torrential rainfall after wreaking havoc in France’s Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte. The cyclone intensified during its passage across the Mozambique Channel and made landfall approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of Pemba, a northern city. Aderito Aramuge, director of the National Institute of Meteorology, reported, “The cyclone is already affecting Pemba with a very strong intensity,” noting the loss of communication from the area since 7 a.m. (0500 GMT).
UNICEF has mobilized resources to assist the affected communities, reporting substantial damage to infrastructure. The organization affirmed that many homes, schools, and health facilities had been either partially or completely destroyed, emphasizing their collaboration with the government to maintain essential services. Meteorological forecasts predict thunderstorms and strong winds, with gusts potentially reaching up to 260 kilometers per hour in the Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces, along with over 250 millimeters (10 inches) of rainfall within a 24-hour period.
Video footage from Pemba captured scenes of torrential rain with trees bending under the force of the wind, and reports indicate structural damage to some residences. In a related development, authorities confirmed that Cyclone Chido resulted in at least 14 fatalities in Mayotte, reflecting the storm’s severe impact.
Cyclones are severe tropical storms characterized by high winds and heavy precipitation, often leading to significant disasters when they make landfall. Mozambique, located along the southeastern coast of Africa, is particularly vulnerable to cyclones due to its geographic position and climatic conditions, which can exacerbate such weather events. The recurring threats pose serious challenges to communities, particularly in terms of infrastructure and emergency preparedness. The role of organizations like UNICEF is critical as they provide vital support to affected populations, helping to restore essential services following such disasters.
In conclusion, Cyclone Chido has inflicted serious damage as it made landfall in Mozambique, particularly affecting Pemba. With heavy rain and winds reaching gale-force strength, the cyclone has prompted urgent humanitarian responses and raised concerns over infrastructure damage and safety. The ongoing updates from meteorological services and organizations like UNICEF will be crucial in assessing the full extent of the disaster and the needs of the affected populations.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
