Impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Mozambique: Update and Response Challenges
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2024, bringing severe rainfall and wind damage primarily to Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces. Over 174,000 individuals have been affected, with 34 reported fatalities. The response is hindered by limited supplies, necessitating urgent humanitarian aid and support, with the Emergency Relief Coordinator allocating US$4 million for immediate relief efforts.
On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique, unleashing heavy rainfall of up to 250mm within 24 hours and winds reaching 120 km/h. Following its landfall, the cyclone moved towards Malawi on December 16, passing through Tete province before expected dissipation near Zimbabwe on December 17. The cyclone caused substantial devastation primarily in the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa, with preliminary assessments estimating that over 174,000 individuals have been impacted. The response to this disaster is hindered by limited supplies. In recognition of the urgent humanitarian needs, the Emergency Relief Coordinator allocated US$4 million to assist Mozambique.
Cabo Delgado Province faced severe damage, particularly in districts such as Mecufi and Chiure, where a significant number of houses were destroyed, with reports indicating at least 128,000 individuals affected. Casualties include 34 fatalities and numerous injuries, with ongoing assessment indicating further possible increases. Infrastructure including schools and health facilities has been significantly compromised, further complicating the response efforts. The need for safe spaces and additional support for vulnerable populations, especially women and children, has been highlighted as a critical priority.
The situation in Nampula and Niassa Province similarly reflects the widespread impact of Cyclone Chido. In Nampula, approximately 46,000 individuals were reported affected, notably in districts such as Memba and Erati, while Niassa reported 425 affected individuals. National disaster management agencies continue to coordinate assessments and provide essential relief where needed. It is crucial that efforts focus on restoring essential services and providing immediate assistance to those whose lives have been disrupted by this natural disaster.
Challenges also stem from ongoing cholera outbreaks in the region, particularly in Nampula, exacerbating the vulnerability of the affected population.
In summary, the aftermath of Cyclone Chido has led to significant destruction across multiple provinces in Mozambique. As emergency responses are initiated, the focus must remain on providing immediate humanitarian aid, ensuring the protection of vulnerable populations, and facilitating long-term recovery efforts to restore normalcy to the affected communities.
Tropical cyclones are severe weather events that can cause extensive damage through high winds and heavy rainfall, resulting in flooding and destruction of infrastructure. Mozambique is susceptible to such natural disasters due to its geographical location, receiving multiple cyclonic events annually, particularly during the rainy season. The rapid arrival of Cyclone Chido has led to widespread devastation, prompting a coordinated response from national disaster management agencies and international humanitarian organizations aimed at mitigating the impact and supporting affected communities.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido has inflicted severe damage upon multiple provinces in Mozambique, affecting over 174,000 individuals and resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries. The humanitarian response is challenged by limited resources and existing health crises, such as cholera outbreaks. It is imperative that adequate support is provided to mitigate the effects of the cyclone and assist in the recovery of the affected populations, particularly vulnerable groups. Continued assessments and effective coordination among humanitarian agencies are critical in addressing the immediate needs and ensuring the safety of all affected individuals.
Original Source: www.unocha.org
