Tropical Cyclone Chido Causes Havoc in Southern Africa

Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, causing severe damage with winds up to 80 km/h and over 250 mm of rain. The cyclone has destroyed thousands of homes and affected thousands of families. It previously devastated Mayotte as a Category 4 storm and is expected to continue influencing weather patterns in Malawi and Mozambique before dissipating near Zimbabwe.

Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, unleashing severe weather with wind speeds reaching up to 80 km/h and rainfall surpassing 250 mm within a 24-hour period. The cyclone has caused extensive damage, including the destruction of more than 5,800 homes and partial damage to 41 classrooms, impacting 2,500 families due to collapsed power poles. These figures are expected to rise as assessments continue in the affected areas.

In Pemba, communication difficulties are prevalent as residents face power outages and intermittent mobile services, causing them to conserve battery life on their devices for essential communications. Prior to affecting Mozambique, Chido devastated the French territory of Mayotte, where it impacted areas with winds exceeding 220 km/h, resulting in significant destruction to entire neighborhoods.

As Chido progresses into Malawi, it maintains intensity at the minimal stage of a moderate tropical storm, producing strong winds and rainfall ranging from 100 to 150 mm. The cyclone is anticipated to make a return to Mozambique, affecting Tete Province along with regions in Sofala and Manica on December 17, before eventually dissipating near Zimbabwe. Authorities in Mozambique and Malawi are urged to monitor weather updates from their national meteorological services.

The phenomenon of tropical cyclones poses a recurring threat to Southern Africa, contributing to severe weather events that result in widespread destruction and humanitarian crises. Tropical Cyclone Chido exemplifies this danger, having first struck Mayotte as a Category 4 storm with devastating effects before making landfall in Mozambique. The region’s vulnerability to such natural disasters necessitates ongoing monitoring and proactive measures to mitigate impact on affected populations.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido has significantly impacted Southern Africa, demonstrating the destructive power of tropical storms. With reports confirming extensive damage in Mozambique and Malawi, including loss of homes and infrastructure, the humanitarian situation remains critical. Continuous assessment and effective communication with residents are essential as authorities work to address the aftermath of this natural disaster.

Original Source: www.vaticannews.va