Death Toll from Cyclone Chido Reaches 94 in Mozambique Amid Widespread Devastation

Cyclone Chido has caused a devastating impact in Mozambique with a death toll rising to 94 and injuries totaling 768. Approximately 622,000 individuals have been affected, with destruction to over 140,000 homes. In Malawi, the death toll has reached 13, affecting more than 35,000 people since the cyclone began. The disaster first struck Mayotte and subsequently hit Mozambique and Malawi, creating widespread devastation.

Cyclone Chido has inflicted severe devastation across Mozambique, with the death toll now reaching 94 as reported by the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD). The cyclone struck the Indian Ocean coastline on December 15, exhibiting wind speeds that soared to 260 kilometers per hour (161.5 miles per hour). The catastrophic event resulted in 768 injuries and affected approximately 622,000 residents, resulting in the destruction or damage of 140,000 homes alongside serious impacts to healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and public buildings.

In a related development, the cyclone has also affected Malawi, with a reported increase in casualties to 13 persons since the storm began impacting the nation on the same date. The Malawi Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) noted that 30 individuals sustained injuries, while over 35,000 people have been affected due to the cyclone. Initially, Cyclone Chido impacted Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory notably susceptible to climate change, before progressing to Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, wreaking havoc and widespread damage.

Cyclone Chido has highlighted the rising vulnerability of several regions in Southern Africa to extreme weather events, further exacerbated by climate change. The devastating impacts of Chido underline the urgent need for improved disaster management and preparedness strategies in these countries, as well as international support for recovery efforts. Historical patterns indicate an increasing frequency and intensity of cyclones in the Indian Ocean, necessitating comprehensive research and policy initiatives to mitigate future disasters.

In summary, Cyclone Chido has resulted in tragic loss of life and substantial damage in Mozambique and Malawi. With 94 deaths reported in Mozambique and rising casualties in Malawi, the cyclone underscores the urgent need for effective disaster risk management. The extensive damage to infrastructure and disruption of services signals a critical situation requiring immediate and long-term humanitarian assistance, reinforcing the importance of regional preparedness in the face of climate change-induced weather patterns.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr