Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, causing extensive damage with winds of up to 80 km/h and over 250 mm of rain. More than 5,800 houses were destroyed, and 2,500 families were affected. After devastating Mayotte as a Category 4 cyclone, it now threatens Malawi as it progresses inland, before expected dissipation near Zimbabwe.
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, unleashing heavy rains, powerful winds, and significant destruction. With wind gusts reaching 80 km/h and rainfall exceeding 250 mm within 24 hours, the cyclone has caused extensive damage, according to the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Reports indicate that over 5,800 homes have been destroyed, and 41 classrooms have incurred partial damage, affecting approximately 2,500 families. As assessments are still in progress, these numbers may rise further.
Reports from Pemba suggest that residents are enduring severe winds and ongoing power outages, complicating communication efforts as mobile services intermittently fail. The lack of electricity makes it challenging for individuals to charge their devices, leading many to conserve battery life for essential communications.
Before impacting Mozambique, Cyclone Chido wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a territory in the French Indian Ocean, where it struck as a Category 4 storm with wind speeds exceeding 220 km/h, leveling entire neighborhoods. As of December 16, Chido is moving inland towards Malawi, maintaining a reduced intensity, yet still bringing strong winds and rainfall of 100-150 mm. The cyclone is anticipated to re-enter Mozambique before dissipating near Zimbabwe on December 17, prompting authorities to advise residents to monitor weather updates closely.
Tropical Cyclone Chido is a significant weather event affecting Southern Africa, primarily impacting Mozambique, Malawi, and regions of the surrounding vicinity. As cyclones can lead to substantial loss of property and disruption of essential services, understanding their trajectory and impacts is vital for regional preparedness and response. This cyclone is a result of seasonal weather patterns that regularly affect the region, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds that can cause flooding and landslides, hence the emphasis on continuous monitoring by local meteorological services.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has brought severe weather conditions to Southern Africa, resulting in extensive damage and challenging living conditions for affected residents. The cyclone has not only impacted Mozambique with destructive winds and rainfall but has now moved towards Malawi, with concerning forecasts ahead. Authorities are actively assessing the damage, and individuals are urged to remain informed about the evolving situation.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
