Cyclone Chido has severely impacted Mozambique and neighboring regions, with an estimated 622,000 people affected and widespread destruction of infrastructure and homes. The Red Cross has mobilized to provide immediate support and launched an Emergency Appeal to raise funds for relief efforts while enhancing community preparedness for future storms.
Nairobi/Geneva, 26 December 2024 – The South-West Indian Ocean has been struck by cyclone Chido, which made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, resulting in catastrophic consequences. The cyclone inflicted heavy rainfall and powerful winds across Madagascar, Comoros, Mozambique, Mayotte, and Malawi, claiming lives and causing significant destruction to homes, infrastructure, and communication networks. This disaster has led to mass displacement, with emerging needs including shelter, food, potable water, and health services for the affected populations.
According to preliminary assessments, approximately 622,000 individuals in Mozambique are impacted, with over 130,000 shelters either damaged or destroyed. In Comoros, more than 64,000 individuals have been affected, along with agriculture, schools, and homes. Malawi has reported over 45,000 affected residents, while in Mayotte, around 70% of the population is impacted, and over 35,000 homes have been destroyed. Red Cross teams have been deployed to support rescue operations and assist affected communities across these regions.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has initiated an Emergency Appeal to address the severe impacts of cyclone Chido, aiming to generate 10 million Swiss francs to aid 100,000 people in Mozambique, Madagascar, Comoros, and Malawi. The multifaceted response will encompass cash assistance, shelter support, healthcare, and integrated aid while ensuring critical supplies are distributed to emergency shelters. Additionally, there is a focus on enhancing community preparedness for future cyclones to target 500,000 individuals in vulnerable areas through early warning systems and training for volunteers in disaster response.
The South-West Indian Ocean region experiences a cyclone season characterized by the potential for severe weather events, such as tropical cyclones. Cyclone Chido serves as a stark reminder of the risks these nations face, particularly Mozambique, with its vulnerability to natural disasters. Humanitarian agencies, including the Red Cross, play a crucial role in disaster response and preparedness, ensuring the provision of essential services and support for affected communities.
In conclusion, cyclone Chido has created a critical humanitarian situation across Mozambique, Madagascar, Comoros, Mayotte, and Malawi, affecting hundreds of thousands. The urgent response led by the Red Cross, alongside the IFRC’s Emergency Appeal, emphasizes the need for immediate assistance and robust preparedness initiatives to mitigate the impacts of future cyclones and support local communities more effectively.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
