Cyclone Chido’s Catastrophic Impact on Mayotte and Mozambique
Cyclone Chido has caused widespread devastation in Mayotte and Mozambique from December 14 to 17, resulting in over 120 fatalities in Mozambique and significant damage in Mayotte. Approximately 380,000 individuals, including children, have been affected. Humanitarian organizations such as HI are responding to provide critical support, including shelter and mental health services, in the hardest-hit areas like Mecúfi and Metuge.
Cyclone Chido has wrought unprecedented devastation across Mayotte and Mozambique, prompting a significant humanitarian crisis. In the wake of the cyclone’s passage from December 14 to 17, which featured winds exceeding 243 km/h, extensive destruction followed. The cyclone claimed at least 120 lives in Mozambique and 35 in Mayotte, affecting over 380,000 individuals, particularly in the Cabo Delgado region, where the needs are dire. In Mayotte, communities are in distress, with many homes rendered uninhabitable, and survivors, including children, face extreme hardships. The humanitarian organization HI is actively assessing needs and providing support to vulnerable populations, particularly in the most severely impacted districts, Mecúfi and Metuge. Emergency aid, including food, temporary shelter, and mental health support, is urgently required as the regions recover from this catastrophic event.
The situation is alarming as communities begin to cope with the aftermath of Cyclone Chido. Affected areas are in dire need of assistance as basic utilities and housing have been severely disrupted. With many families losing everything, organizations like HI have mobilized resources to aid those in distress. The needs assessments in the Cabo Delgado and Nampula areas will focus on aiding individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, ensuring a comprehensive approach to support and recovery. The impact of Cyclone Chido highlights the pressing need for international support and recovery strategies in the region.
Cyclone Chido, which struck from December 14 to 17, intensified as it crossed the islands of Madagascar and Mayotte, subsequently affecting northern Mozambique and southern Malawi. Characterized by high winds and torrential rainfall, the cyclone left behind significant destruction and a growing humanitarian crisis. Mayotte and Mozambique are grappling with the consequences, including loss of life, widespread property damage, and increased vulnerability among affected populations, particularly children, low-income families, and individuals with disabilities. Humanitarian organizations are responding to the crisis, mobilizing resources to address urgent needs for food, shelter, and psychological support in the aftermath of the disaster.
In summary, Cyclone Chido has plunged Mayotte and Mozambique into a severe humanitarian crisis, with thousands affected and critical infrastructure destroyed. Loss of life is a stark reminder of the cyclone’s ferocity, highlighting the urgent needs for shelter, food, and psychological support for survivors. The international community and humanitarian organizations like HI play a pivotal role in the recovery process, providing essential aid and support to those impacted. Continued vigilance and assistance will be crucial in alleviating the suffering of those affected as they begin to rebuild their lives.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
