Cyclone Chido’s Toll: Mozambique Faces 94 Deaths and Massive Damage

Cyclone Chido has caused 94 deaths and approximately 140,000 homes damaged in Mozambique. The cyclone affected around 622,000 individuals. Additionally, Malawi reported 13 deaths, with over 35,000 people affected. The storm first impacted Mayotte before hitting Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, resulting in widespread devastation.

The recent devastation caused by Cyclone Chido has resulted in a heartbreaking death toll of 94 individuals in Mozambique. Reports from the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD) indicate that the cyclone made landfall along the Indian Ocean coastline on December 15, with wind speeds reaching an alarming 260 kilometers (approximately 161.5 miles) per hour. In addition to the fatalities, the cyclone left 768 individuals injured and has impacted around 622,000 people across the region. The destruction includes around 140,000 homes, 52 health facilities, 89 public structures, and 250 educational institutions, severely disrupting countless lives.

In Malawi, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) has documented a death toll of 13 individuals since the cyclone traversed the country, also beginning on December 15. The storm has caused injuries to 30 individuals and has directly impacted over 35,000 people. Chido initially caused damage in the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte on December 14, before it progressed to Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, inflicting widespread calamity and hardship.

Cyclone Chido exemplifies the severe consequences of climate-related phenomena, particularly in regions vulnerable to extreme weather patterns. The cyclone illustrates the urgent need for disaster risk management and amelioration strategies in African nations, particularly in coastal areas. As evidenced by previous incidents, the impact of such storms extends beyond immediate physical destruction, causing long-term socio-economic challenges for affected populations and raising questions about preparedness and resilience in vulnerable communities.

The ongoing tragedy from Cyclone Chido highlights the dire consequences of extreme weather events experienced by Mozambique and Malawi. With a significant loss of life and extensive infrastructure damage, the situation demands immediate attention and resources for recovery and rebuilding efforts. Continued assessment and support are necessary to assist thousands affected by this disaster as they navigate the aftermath and strive towards recovery.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr