Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, 2023, causing heavy rainfall and strong winds, resulting in extensive property damage and power outages. The SADC reported over 5,800 homes destroyed, with the cyclone’s effects continuing towards Malawi and Zimbabwe. Residents are advised to stay informed through meteorological updates as recovery efforts progress.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2023, resulting in severe weather conditions marked by gusty winds reaching 80 km/h, thunderstorms, and relentless rainfall exceeding 250 mm within a 24-hour period. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has reported that the cyclone has caused significant destruction, with over 5,800 homes demolished and 41 classrooms sustaining partial damage. Additionally, the cyclone has disrupted the lives of roughly 2,500 families due to downed power poles, leaving many without electricity and hindering communication efforts as mobile services fluctuate.
Prior to impacting Mozambique, Tropical Cyclone Chido wrought extensive devastation on the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte, where it made landfall as a Category 4 cyclone, producing winds exceeding 220 km/h that obliterated entire neighborhoods. After striking Mozambique, Chido continued its trajectory towards Malawi, maintaining moderate storm intensity, while the cyclone is anticipated to eventually dissipate in Zimbabwe by December 17, 2023. Residents in the affected regions are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to updates from their national meteorological services regarding the evolving weather conditions.
As communities grapple with the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido, the events underscore the increasing frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones in Southern Africa, attributed in part to climate change. Such storms pose dire threats not only to infrastructure but also to the livelihoods and safety of the populations in the region. Historical patterns indicate that varying topographies and climatic conditions further complicate the response and recovery efforts in cyclone-prone areas like Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has inflicted extensive damage upon Mozambique and has resulted in significant disruptions in communication and power supplies. The cyclone’s path has raised concerns for Malawi and Zimbabwe, as these countries anticipate heavy rains and strong winds. It highlights the urgent need for preparedness in vulnerable regions and the importance of monitoring weather patterns that could impact communities.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
