Tropical Cyclone Chido hit Mozambique on December 15, 2023, delivering destructive winds of 80 km/h and over 250 mm of rain, impacting thousands of homes and families. The cyclone, previously striking Mayotte, has since progressed inland toward Malawi, where it continues to cause widespread disruption. Its trajectory points toward potential dissipation near Zimbabwe by December 17, prompting community preparedness efforts in the affected areas.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, unleashing powerful winds that reached speeds of 80 km/h, accompanied by thunderstorms and significant rainfall exceeding 250 mm within a single day. As reported by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the cyclone has caused severe destruction, affecting over 5,800 homes and damaging 41 classrooms. Additionally, falling power poles have disrupted electricity access for approximately 2,500 families. It is anticipated that the damage assessments will reveal further devastation as the situation develops.
The impacts of Cyclone Chido extend beyond Mozambique, as it previously inflicted widespread destruction on Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean. There, it struck as a Category 4 cyclone with winds surpassing 220 km/h, razing entire neighborhoods to the ground. Following its landfall in Mozambique, the cyclone has begun moving inland toward Malawi, maintaining its status as a moderate tropical storm as it continues to bring torrential rain and strong winds to both Mozambique and Malawi.
As Chido progresses, it is expected to reach the Tete Province of Mozambique and subsequently head north into Sofala and Manica provinces. Forecasts indicate that the cyclone may dissipate near Zimbabwe by December 17. Authorities have urged residents in the affected regions to remain alert and informed through their national meteorological services to ensure their safety amidst ongoing severe weather conditions.
Cyclone Chido represents a significant natural disaster impacting Southern Africa, particularly Mozambique and Malawi. Cyclones in this region can lead to catastrophic outcomes due to infrastructure vulnerability and the region’s geographical susceptibility to such weather phenomena. This cyclone has drawn attention to the ongoing climate-related challenges faced by nations in Southern Africa, making it imperative for communities to prepare for and respond to severe weather events effectively. Understanding the implications of Cyclone Chido highlights the broader issues of climate resilience and disaster management in the region.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc across Southern Africa, primarily affecting Mozambique and Malawi. With its destructive winds, torrential rains, and significant property damage, Chido exemplifies the harsh realities of climate-induced disasters in the region. As assessments continue and recovery efforts are mobilized, the ongoing impacts of cyclones underscore the importance of preparedness and responsive action in mitigating future risks.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
