Tropical Cyclone Chido: Flash Update on Humanitarian Impact and Preparedness Efforts in Southern Africa

Tropical Cyclone Chido is poised to affect approximately 2.7 million people in Southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique where the cyclone is expected to make landfall on December 15. It has already reached Category 3 intensity and may strengthen again. Preparations are underway across affected areas with advisories and stock repositioning to mitigate impacts, particularly from heavy rains and winds.

As of December 13, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido is expected to impact approximately 2.7 million individuals across six countries in Southern Africa, namely the Comoros, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, and Seychelles. The cyclone, which was categorized as a Category 4 on December 10 before decreasing to Category 3, is predicted to intensify again before making landfall in northern Mozambique on December 15. Preparations for disaster response are underway, including community advisories and repositioning of humanitarian supplies.

The cyclone threatens to deliver heavy rains and winds that could reach up to 120 km/h, particularly in Mozambique where the most significant damage is anticipated. In addition to Mozambique, other regions such as Zimbabwe and Zambia also expect substantial rainfall due to Chido, while additional weather systems are projected to affect Angola, Botswana, DRC, Eswatini, and parts of South Africa. Humanitarian preparedness measures are being implemented across the affected regions to mitigate the impact of the cyclone.

Immediate actions taken include issuing alerts and advisories, pre-deploying emergency teams, and conducting public awareness campaigns regarding evacuation and safety precautions. In Madagascar, efforts for disaster management are supplemented by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) mobilizing flights for aid delivery. The Comorian Red Cross is conducting community awareness campaigns while Mozambique’s National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) is coordinating its response efforts. Malawi has also enacted evacuation precautions in anticipation of the cyclone’s repercussions.

Preparedness is vital as regions brace for heavy rains and potential flooding caused by Cyclone Chido, with a substantial focus on ensuring the safety of at-risk communities and optimizing access to humanitarian aid. Efforts from various humanitarian organizations and governmental agencies underscore a coordinated approach to minimize the impacts of the cyclone amidst difficult conditions.

Tropical Cyclone Chido is a significant weather event that poses a grave risk to multiple countries in Southern Africa. Formed in early December 2024, it developed into a severe tropical cyclone, thus raising alarms about its potential impact on densely populated and vulnerable areas in the region. The cyclone has been tracked as it moves westward towards landfall, prompting preparatory and emergency responses to mitigate its effects, especially in Mozambique where the cyclone is expected to strike hardest. Heavy rainfall and wind threats from Chido could lead to widespread flooding and damage, compelling local governments and international organizations to fortify their response strategies.

In conclusion, the imminent threat of Tropical Cyclone Chido necessitates swift and effective humanitarian actions across Southern Africa. With nearly 2.7 million individuals at risk, countries are mobilizing resources to prepare for the cyclone’s arrival. Ongoing efforts include disseminating advisories, coordinating emergency responses, and prepositioning supplies to ensure community safety. The collective response of local governments, humanitarian organizations, and international agencies will be crucial in minimizing the cyclone’s anticipated impacts and safeguarding vulnerable populations across the region.

Original Source: reliefweb.int