Cyclone Chido’s Devastating Impact: Death Toll Rises to 45 in Mozambique

Cyclone Chido has caused a significant humanitarian crisis in Mozambique, raising the death toll to 45 and injuring nearly 500 individuals. The cyclone, characterized by violent winds and heavy rainfall, has destroyed approximately 24,000 homes and impacted over 181,000 people in an already vulnerable area. The regions most affected include Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa.

The death toll from Cyclone Chido in Mozambique has tragically increased to 45, as reported by the National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management on Wednesday. Initially, the cyclone was reported to have claimed 34 lives following its landfall on December 15, 2024, in the Cabo Delgado province. The updated figures indicate that 38 individuals lost their lives in Cabo Delgado, while Nampula province recorded four fatalities and Niassa saw three deaths. Additionally, one person remains unaccounted for. While nearly 500 individuals have sustained injuries, the cyclone has resulted in the destruction of approximately 24,000 homes and partial damage to an additional 12,300 houses, affecting more than 181,000 residents. Cyclone Chido, which packed winds of 260 kilometres (160 miles) per hour and unleashed heavy rains of 250 millimetres (10 inches) within a 24-hour period, hit an already vulnerable region of northern Mozambique, which is frequently impacted by cyclones and beset by conflict and underdevelopment. The cyclone made landfall after traversing the Indian Ocean, where it previously struck the island of Mayotte, potentially causing extensive casualties there as well.

Cyclones, severe weather systems characterized by powerful winds and torrential rains, pose significant threats to coastal regions, particularly in vulnerable areas such as Mozambique. Historically, Mozambique has faced numerous cyclones which exacerbate its chronic challenges relating to poverty, conflict, and climate change. Cyclone Chido, like many of its predecessors, has left in its wake devastating impacts on local communities, further highlighting the urgent need for disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure.

In conclusion, the impact of Cyclone Chido on Mozambique has been catastrophic, with a rising death toll and significant destruction reported. The urgent need for both immediate humanitarian assistance and long-term recovery strategies is paramount, as thousands of lives have been affected by the cyclone’s aftermath. The situation calls for heightened awareness and stronger measures to mitigate the effects of such natural disasters in vulnerable regions.

Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com