Intense Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mayotte and Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, prompting WFP to coordinate emergency responses and aid distribution. Following its weakening to a storm, limited effects were noted in Malawi and Madagascar, while the cyclone added stress to areas already facing food insecurity due to previous droughts.
On December 14, 2024, Intense Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall on the island of Mayotte, subsequently impacting Cabo Delgado, Mozambique on December 15. In response, the World Food Programme (WFP) is actively coordinating emergency efforts, distributing food aid, and deploying vehicles to access remote areas affected by the cyclone. By December 16, Chido had weakened to a Moderate Tropical Storm as it continued into southern Malawi, where the WFP is monitoring developments but currently does not require immediate assistance.
Furthermore, Northern Madagascar experienced limited effects from the cyclone, as it did not actually make landfall there. The government is leading coordination efforts, and the WFP remains prepared to provide support if necessary. The cyclone’s arrival complicates an already precarious situation in these regions, which have been struggling with the repercussions of recurrent climatic shocks, notably the El Niño-induced drought.
Cyclones pose significant threats to coastal and island regions, leading to devastating humanitarian crises. In the case of Tropical Cyclone Chido, the immediate impacts are being monitored closely, especially given the context of previously experienced droughts and food insecurity in Southern Africa. The WFP plays a crucial role in the region by providing swift humanitarian assistance and coordinating with local governments to address the needs of affected populations, underscoring the importance of preparedness in the face of natural disasters. Recent climatic events in Southern Africa, particularly the El Niño phenomenon, have exacerbated food insecurity, making the region highly vulnerable when additional shocks, such as cyclones, occur. The WFP’s proactive measures underscore the necessity of adapting to increasing climate variability.
In conclusion, the impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido is being managed through the active responses of the WFP and governments in the affected regions. As the cyclone transitions to a moderate storm, ongoing assessments and preparations are critical for addressing the needs of populations who continue to grapple with vulnerabilities due to prior climatic incidents. The preparedness measures implemented by the WFP reflect a broader strategy aimed at mitigating the effects of successive weather-related shocks in Southern Africa.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
