Tropical Cyclone Chido: Flash Update on Impact and Emergency Response

Tropical Cyclone Chido has impacted Mayotte and the Comoros with heavy rains and winds, endangering over 2.5 million people, mainly in Mozambique. Landfall is expected in Mozambique on December 15, prompting emergency preparations across affected regions. Authorities are mobilizing resources to mitigate flood risks and conduct damage assessments, with regional coordination underway to support vulnerable populations.

As of December 14, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has notably affected Mayotte and the Comoros with high winds and substantial rainfall, posing a risk of flooding and mudslides. Approximately 2.5 million individuals are situated in Chido’s projected path, specifically impacting over 1.7 million people in Mozambique, 440,000 in Malawi, and nearly 370,000 in the Comoros. Chido’s trajectory forecasts landfall in northern Mozambique on December 15, with adverse effects anticipated, including severe weather conditions and significant rainfall across the affected regions.

Cyclone Chido, which intensified over the southern Indian Ocean, has produced exceptionally high winds, surpassing those of previous significant cyclones. The cyclone has produced flooding in Mayotte, with weather conditions predicted to improve as the cyclone travels further west. As it nears Madagascar, initial reports indicated no damage; however, ongoing conditions remain unstable. The storm’s influence is expected to continue affecting regions beyond Mozambique, particularly in Malawi and Zambia, with heavy rainfall projected.

Emergency responses are underway in the affected areas; regional authorities have initiated disaster preparedness protocols and advisories for populations at risk. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) has been activated for monitoring weather developments and coordinating aid. In the Comoros, emergency plans have been instituted, and residents are encouraged to follow updates from official meteorological services. Meanwhile, similar precautions and warnings have been issued in Mozambique and Malawi as local governments prepare for potential impacts.

As Chido advances, officials stress the need for ongoing vigilance, particularly regarding flood risks in Mozambique, with anticipated rainfall exceeding 100 mm within a 24-hour period in certain areas. It is essential for all humanitarian partners in these regions to remain proactive in implementing response strategies, including the positioning of emergency resources. This cyclone situation exemplifies the vulnerabilities faced by southern African nations and highlights the critical need for coordinated international humanitarian efforts in disaster response and management.

Tropical Cyclone Chido developed in the southeastern Indian Ocean and has intensified significantly, affecting various islands and coastal regions in the path of its approach, primarily Mayotte, the Comoros, and anticipated impacts on Mozambique and Malawi. With a history of severe cyclones in the region, the magnitude of Chido raises alarms due to projections that suggest it may induce hazardous weather, leading to serious humanitarian implications. Regional governments and humanitarian agencies have mobilized to ensure preparedness and rapid response to mitigate impact and ensure safety for the millions of individuals in harm’s way.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a significant threat to millions across southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. As the cyclone progresses, many regions are preparing for severe weather events, including dangerous winds and substantial rains, potentially leading to flooding and infrastructure damage. Ongoing emergency responses and regional cooperation are critical for mitigating the effects of this cyclone, highlighting the importance of preparedness and humanitarian action in disaster management.

Original Source: reliefweb.int