Mozambique: Urgent Humanitarian Response Required Following Cyclone Chido
Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, 2024, causing widespread destruction and affecting approximately 453,971 individuals, resulting in at least 120 fatalities and over 70,000 destroyed homes. The cyclone exacerbated existing humanitarian crises, including cholera outbreaks and conflicts, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and immediate funding to support affected communities.
The devastating impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2024, has severely affected local communities. Bringing unprecedented rainfall of over 250 mm in just 24 hours and winds reaching 120 km/h, the cyclone resulted in significant destruction across several provinces. Affected areas have reported substantial loss of life, with at least 120 fatalities, and the damage to infrastructure is staggering, including the destruction of over 70,000 homes and numerous educational and health facilities.
The Humanitarian Needs Assessment revealed that approximately 453,971 individuals have been affected, with a critical escalation in humanitarian needs prompting the activation of a Flash Appeal. Specifically, Cabo Delgado Province has seen approximately 272,000 people directly impacted, with total devastation reported in areas such as Mecufi and Nangolo. Emergency responses are hindered by damaged roads and poor communication networks, which complicates efforts to deliver essential aid and evacuation.
The cyclone has exacerbated existing humanitarian crises in the region, with an outbreak of cholera reported and existing conflict displacing vulnerable populations. An immediate response is crucial, as affected individuals require safe temporary shelter, medical assistance, potable water, and essential supplies to prevent the spread of disease. The restoration of agricultural activities is vital to support livelihoods and improve food security.
Tropical Cyclone Chido has struck Mozambique during an already challenging humanitarian context, where the country faces multiple crises, including a drought affecting 1.4 million individuals and ongoing conflict impacting 1.3 million people. The cyclone’s destruction has necessitated a robust humanitarian response to address immediate needs and prevent further deterioration of public health and safety. Existing vulnerabilities due to insufficient infrastructure and the presence of displaced persons have made the consequences of this disaster particularly severe. Humanitarian organizations have mobilized resources to manage the response under the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP), which aims to provide essential aid to affected populations. Nevertheless, the combined challenges highlight the urgent need for additional funding and support to address the extensive humanitarian implications of Cyclone Chido.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido has inflicted severe damage on Mozambique, impacting hundreds of thousands of individuals and exacerbating pre-existing crises. The urgent need for humanitarian assistance is clear, as local communities face the challenges of rebuilding in the aftermath of the cyclone while concurrently dealing with health emergencies and food insecurity. Immediate action must be taken to secure funding and resources to meet the critical needs of those affected and ensure a coordinated humanitarian response that addresses the multifaceted challenges brought about by this disaster.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
