Storm Chido has killed at least seven people in Malawi and affected over 30,000 residents, with significant damage reported across various districts. The storm also impacted Mozambique and the Comoros archipelago, resulting in extensive humanitarian crises. Relief efforts are currently being organized to assist those affected as authorities monitor further developments.
The storm named Chido has wreaked considerable havoc in Malawi, resulting in the deaths of at least seven individuals and impacting over 30,000 residents, as reported by disaster management officials on Tuesday. Preliminary data from the Malawi Department of Disaster Management Affairs noted that 7,721 households, which equates to 34,741 individuals, have been affected by the storm, with deaths recorded across multiple districts. Significant damage was inflicted, including the destruction of roofs on schools, healthcare facilities, and residences.
The tropical cyclone originated northeast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean before making landfall near Nacala, Mozambique, this past Sunday, where it also caused extensive damage. According to a report from the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the storm has had far-reaching effects, impacting over 174,000 people in Mozambique and an additional 64,000 individuals in the Comoros archipelago, resulting in the destruction of thousands of homes.
On Monday, Chido’s remains passed through Malawi, transforming into a moderate tropical storm that brought heavy rains and flooding across 17 districts, primarily in the southern region of the country. The government’s response included the resumption of school classes after briefly suspending them for safety reasons. “Our eyes are on the Indian Ocean in case there will be another development,” stated Lucy Mtilatila, director for the Malawi Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, alluding to ongoing monitoring efforts following the storm’s dissipation. Furthermore, disaster management officials have since withdrawn search and rescue teams but are actively collaborating with humanitarian partners to implement relief efforts for those impacted.
The tropical storm, classified as Tropical Cyclone Chido, has been a significant meteorological event affecting Malawi and surrounding regions. Originating from the Indian Ocean, the storm’s landfall near Mozambique intensified its impact, leading to severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and strong winds. The Malawi Department of Disaster Management Affairs plays a crucial role in assessing damage, coordinating relief, and supporting recovery efforts in the wake of such natural disasters, making their reports and assessments vital for humanitarian interventions.
In summary, Storm Chido has left a devastating mark on Malawi, claiming lives, displacing thousands, and damaging critical infrastructure. With ongoing relief efforts underway and considerable focus on monitoring potential future storms, authorities are striving to support affected individuals and communities. Understanding the extent of the impact and providing timely assistance is essential for recovery in the aftermath of such disasters.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
