Mozambique Faces Severe Impact from Tropical Cyclone Chido

On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique, causing extensive damage with rains over 250 mm and winds up to 120 km/h. The storm affected approximately 174,158 people, resulting in 34 deaths and significant infrastructure damage across affected provinces. Emergency funds of $4 million have been allocated, though limited supplies pose challenges to response efforts.

On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique, unleashing heavy rains up to 250 mm within 24 hours and winds reaching 120 km/h. The cyclone swiftly moved to Malawi and Tete province before forecasted dissipation in Zimbabwe by December 17. Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces bore the brunt of the storm’s impact, with initial estimates indicating at least 174,158 affected individuals, including 34 fatalities and 319 injuries. The emergency response has been hampered by insufficient supply stocks. In response, an allocation of $4 million has been provided by the Emergency Relief Coordinator to bolster humanitarian efforts.

Damage assessments reveal significant destruction across the affected regions, with over 35,000 houses, nine schools, and several health facilities and infrastructure reported as damaged or destroyed. The INGD (National Institute for Natural Disaster) reported real-time data on the cyclone’s repercussions. In Cabo Delgado, the districts of Mecufi, Chiure, and Pemba observed extensive devastation, with communities facing dire needs for food, water, and shelter. Meanwhile, the need for medical supplies and emotional support services for vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, was highlighted.

Specific districts such as Ancuabe and Metuge experienced extensive educational and health facility damage; Chiure and Mancala faced acute needs for water and food, especially for internally displaced persons residing in affected areas. Overall, cholera outbreaks in neighboring Nampula province complicate recovery efforts.

This situation underscores the urgent need for continued assessments and coordinated humanitarian responses to address the immediate needs of affected populations as recovery efforts progress. Efforts must prioritize protecting vulnerable groups while replenishing essential resources and infrastructure.

Tropical Cyclone Chido has significantly affected Mozambique since its landfall on December 15, 2024. With wind speeds reaching 120 km/h and rainfall surpassing 250 mm, the cyclone impacted various provinces, predominantly Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa. These areas are now grappling with the consequences of widespread destruction, including thousands of damaged homes and facilities. The situation has prompted a humanitarian response, with a focus on immediate relief efforts, infrastructure restoration, and community support, especially for women and children.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has had a devastating impact on Mozambique, affecting at least 174,158 individuals and leading to significant loss of life and property. The response efforts have been initiated with financial support provided; however, ongoing assessments and immediate humanitarian assistance are critical to addressing the needs of affected populations. Collaborative efforts are essential to ensure a coordinated response, particularly for vulnerable groups, to facilitate recovery and reconstruction in hard-hit areas.

Original Source: reliefweb.int