Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, on December 15 as a category 4 storm, causing severe damages with winds up to 260 km/h and 250 mm of rain. UNICEF and local authorities respond to the urgent needs of affected families. The cyclone’s remnants may impact southern Malawi and surrounding regions over the coming days.
On December 15, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique, at approximately 6 AM as a category 4 storm, generating destructive winds of up to 260 kilometers per hour alongside substantial rainfall exceeding 250 millimeters within 24 hours. The cyclone affected areas including Pemba city, Mecufi, Metuge, and Nampula, resulting in damage to infrastructure and electricity outages in several regions. Initial reports indicated that Nampula officials noted damage to residential structures, although specifics are currently being verified.
The Southern African Development Community’s Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) provided warnings about the potential of Cyclone Chido to significantly disrupt infrastructure such as power lines and buildings, stressing the need for the public to stay updated through national weather services. Furthermore, UNICEF Mozambique is actively engaged in assessing the cyclone’s impact and initiating a response to assist vulnerable children and families in Cabo Delgado. Representative Mary-Louise Eagleton affirmed that UNICEF aims to deliver essential supplies, highlighting the destruction of numerous homes and facilities, and emphasizing the urgent requirement for additional support to address the immediate needs of those affected.
Following its impact in Mozambique, remnants of Cyclone Chido are expected to bring heavy rainfall to southern Malawi, measuring around 100 millimeters, with wind conditions of up to 100 kilometers per hour forecasted until December 16. The cyclone had previously skimmed the southern shores of the Comoros islands, where initial reports indicated minor injuries and damage, primarily due to flooding. Reports from Anjouan noted two injuries, five displaced households, and some infrastructural damage, while Moheli reported only agricultural losses.
Cyclone Chido formed as a powerful tropical cyclone, affecting the Mozambican coastline and neighboring regions. Tropical cyclones are characterized by their intense winds, heavy rainfall, and potential for widespread damage, especially in coastal areas with vulnerable populations. Cyclone Chido’s trajectory included significant landfall in Cabo Delgado, impacting not just infrastructure but the livelihoods of local communities. Organizations such as UNICEF play a crucial role in disaster response, aiming to address the humanitarian needs arising from such natural disasters.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has had a devastating impact on Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique, with reports of significant wind damage, heavy rainfall, and disruption to essential services. Humanitarian organizations are mobilizing efforts to assist those affected, highlighting the urgent need for continued support and resources to ensure community recovery. As the cyclone’s remnants move toward Malawi and potentially dissipate near Zimbabwe, the broader implications on regional weather patterns and humanitarian needs are yet to unfold.
Original Source: allafrica.com
