Tropical Cyclone Chido, impacting Mayotte and the Comoros, poses severe risks to over 2.5 million people in Southern Africa, particularly Mozambique and Malawi. Strong winds and heavy rainfall are expected to result in flooding and mudslides. Authorities are actively preparing for the arrival of the cyclone, scheduled to reach Mozambique on 15 December, alongside ongoing assessments of damages in the affected areas.
As of 14 December 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has intensified significantly, impacting regions of Mayotte and the Comoros with strong winds and heavy rainfall, creating conditions ripe for flooding and mudslides. Approximately 2.5 million individuals inhabit the projected path of the cyclone, with over 1.7 million in Mozambique alone, in addition to residents in Malawi and the Comoros. The cyclone has previously passed just north of Madagascar without any reported damages, although unsettled weather persists. Preparatory measures are being taken by regional and national authorities, including the circulation of advisories and ongoing assessments of damage and needs.
Chido is expected to unleash severe weather as it approaches northern Mozambique, projected to make landfall on 15 December, following its effects in the Comoros where infrastructure damage and evacuations have already been reported. Mandatory evacuations are occurring in response to forecasts of extraordinary rainfall and winds, which may exceed 200mm. The cyclone’s outcomes extend beyond Mozambique, affecting regions in Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, increasing the risk for flash flooding and potential mudslides. Authorities continue to monitor the cyclone’s path and prepare for humanitarian responses, ensuring the safety of those affected.
As Tropical Cyclone Chido develops, regional preparedness and response coordination efforts are paramount to mitigate further impacts. The SADC Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre has begun issuing daily updates, and emphasis on rapid assessment missions and resource prepositioning is critical. Affected nations are adhering to advisories, preparing for the significant impact expected over the coming days from Chido and other concurrent weather systems.
The cyclone’s history traces back to its formation in early December within the Indian Ocean, quickly escalating to a severe tropical storm. As meteorological assessments continue, local home relocations and disaster response efforts are being prioritized to address the needs arising from this significant weather event.
Regional response activities include activating emergency operation centers, distributing alerts, and prepositioning critical supplies to enable efficient emergency responses in affected districts. Public awareness campaigns are being intensified for those in high-risk areas to ensure preparedness measures are widely understood and followed. This multi-faceted approach aims to protect individuals and infrastructure from the catastrophic consequences of Cyclone Chido’s anticipated passage.
Tropical Cyclone Chido, which developed in December 2024, exhibits severe weather characteristics as it crosses the southeastern Indian Ocean. Previously affecting the Comoros and Mayotte, the cyclone has prompted storm warnings and emergency responses across several southern African nations. Recent meteorological data has indicated that this cyclone bears resemblance in intensity to significant historical cyclones, necessitating comprehensive assessment and proactive measures to safeguard the population in coastal and vulnerable regions.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido poses an immediate risk to millions across Southern Africa, with severe winds and heavy rains anticipated to result in flooding and mudslides. The ongoing preparations and assessments led by national authorities across Mozambique, Malawi, the Comoros, and surrounding regions will be critical in managing the cyclone’s impact. With effective coordination and responsive measures, the focus remains on protecting and supporting affected communities while closely monitoring the evolving situation.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
