Tropical Cyclone Chido: Impact and Response in Southern Africa as of December 2024

Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on 15 December 2024, bringing destructive winds and heavy rain. Over 1.7 million individuals in Mozambique and about 440,000 in Malawi are at risk. The international community is assisting local governments with disaster preparedness as the cyclone is expected to weaken near Zimbabwe after affecting southern Malawi. Significant rainfall forecasts raise concerns for flash floods and mudslides across the southern region of Africa.

On 15 December 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique, delivering destructive winds and heavy rain. The cyclone initially struck as a Category 4 storm near Pemba city, causing significant damage with winds reaching 260 km/h. As it progressed, the cyclone is forecasted to impact southern Malawi and ultimately dissipate near Zimbabwe by 17 December. Over 1.7 million individuals in Mozambique and approximately 440,000 in Malawi are at risk from Chido’s effects. The UN and various partners are actively involved in supporting local government efforts for disaster preparedness and response.

The cyclone unleashed heavy rainfall across several provinces including Cabo Delgado and Nampula, with precautions being advised against coastal submersions. Initial reports from Nampula have indicated structural damage, although comprehensive assessments are ongoing. Connectivity issues were observed in Pemba with mobile networks being disrupted and electricity remaining inconsistent. Other neighboring provinces are anticipated to experience the cyclone’s consequences later the same day.

As the remnants of Chido transition into Malawi, authorities predict rainfall of up to 100 mm accompanied by wind gusts reaching up to 100 km/h. The cyclone previously passed near the islands of Comoros, where moderate disruptions were reported, including injuries and displacements due to flooding. Regional forecasts also predict substantial rainfall across northern Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and parts of surrounding nations, raising concerns about potential flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather event began to develop in early December before intensifying to cyclone strength, indicating a shift between cyclone categories during its movement. Monitoring efforts continue across affected regions to mitigate impending risks and to ensure the safety of impacted populations.

Tropical Cyclone Chido represents a recent significant weather system that has impacted various southern African nations, namely Mozambique and Malawi. As cyclones can cause severe disruptions through high winds and heavy rainfall, communities in the cyclone’s path face heightened risks, including destruction of property, injury, or displacement. With millions of people considered at risk, the response by humanitarian organizations such as the UN plays a vital role in addressing immediate needs and ensuring preparedness. Understanding the evolution and expected trajectory of such cyclones is crucial for effective disaster management and mitigation strategies. Given the history of similar weather patterns in the region, Chido’s development has drawn attention, particularly in light of prior vulnerabilities faced by communities in southern Africa. The region’s capacity to respond to such threats is continually evolving, yet still requires robust international support and cooperation to effectively manage the impacts of natural disasters.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has demonstrated the potential for severe impact on southern Africa, particularly Mozambique and Malawi, with over 2 million people in the projected path of the cyclone’s remnants. The active involvement of the UN and partner organizations underscores the importance of coordinated disaster preparedness. Continued monitoring and assessment efforts are essential to minimize the adverse effects of the cyclone, which threatens communities with flooding and infrastructure damage. With significant rainfall anticipated in surrounding nations, the broader regional implications of Cyclone Chido warrant careful attention.

Original Source: reliefweb.int