Devastation Caused by Cyclone Chido in Mozambique: A Call for Emergency Response
Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, on December 15 as a Category 4 storm, delivering destructive winds of up to 260 km/h and heavy rainfall. Significant damages were reported in Nampula and Cabo Delgado provinces, with plans for emergency response from organizations like UNICEF. The cyclone’s remnants are also expected to affect southern Malawi before dissipating near Zimbabwe.
On December 15, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall as a Category 4 storm in Cabo Delgado Province of Mozambique, approximately 35-40 km south of Pemba city at 6:00 AM. The cyclone exhibited catastrophic winds of up to 260 km/h and heavy rainfall, accumulating 250 mm in just 24 hours. Accompanied by life-threatening sea conditions, Chido posed severe risks of coastal flooding in the affected areas, primarily impacting Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces.
The cyclone’s effects were notably felt in Mecufi, Metuge, Ancamuabe, Meluco, Ilha de Ibo, Quissanga, and Pemba, among other locations. Reports from Nampula indicated structural damages to residences, although comprehensive assessments were still pending. By 9:00 AM, mobile networks had been compromised in Pemba, while electricity service remained sporadic.
The Southern African Development Community’s Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) cautioned that the intense winds could result in extensive damage to infrastructure, including the uprooting of trees and disruption of power lines. Additionally, Niassa, Tete, and Zambezia provinces were also expected to endure effects from the cyclone, with authorities urging residents to stay attuned to updates from the national weather service.
UNICEF, led by Mary-Louise Eagleton, indicated the organization’s commitment to assess and respond to the immediate needs of families and children severely impacted by Cyclone Chido. She affirmed, “UNICEF will be delivering lifesaving medicines, water purification supplies, and other essentials to keep people safe and healthy.” The organization is collaborating with the government to maintain the foundational services amidst the devastation.
Following its landfall, the cyclone’s remnants were predicted to affect southern Malawi on December 15-16, accompanied by further inclement weather including rainfall up to 100 mm and winds of 80 to 100 km/h. The cyclone’s weather system is expected to gradually dissipate near Zimbabwe by December 17. Prior to landfall, Chido closely approached the southern Comoros islands, causing limited damages on Anjouan and Moheli, with some infrastructural impacts and reports of displacement.
Tropical cyclones are powerful storm systems characterized by low pressure, high winds, and heavy rainfall. They form over warm ocean waters and can lead to disastrous conditions upon landfall. Mozambique is particularly vulnerable to such weather events due to its geographical location along the Indian Ocean, frequently encountering intense tropical storms that result in significant human and infrastructure tolls. The occurrence of Cyclone Chido exemplifies these threats, necessitating prompt emergency response measures to safeguard affected populations.
In summary, Cyclone Chido severely impacted northern Mozambique, causing significant destruction to infrastructure and displacing numerous residents. Emergency response organizations, including UNICEF, are mobilizing resources to mitigate the devastating effects on vulnerable communities. With the cyclone’s remnants set to influence neighboring regions, continued vigilance and support for affected populations are crucial in the face of ongoing natural disasters.
Original Source: allafrica.com
