Tropical Cyclone Chido: Impact and Emergency Response in Southern Africa

As of December 14, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has severely impacted Mayotte and the Comoros. Forecasts predict damaging winds and heavy rainfall affecting approximately 2.5 million people. Preparations are underway as the cyclone is expected to strike northern Mozambique on December 15, with risks of flooding and mudslides across Southern Africa. Emergency responses are activated in affected countries, with ongoing assessments to manage and mitigate the expected impacts.

As of December 14, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido has significantly impacted regions in Southern Africa, notably Mayotte and the Comoros. Forecasts predict that Chido will generate severe winds and heavy rainfall, posing threats of flooding and mudslides to approximately 2.5 million individuals in its projected path. This includes over 1.7 million residents in Mozambique, 440,000 in Malawi, and nearly 370,000 in the Comoros. Despite Chido’s passage near Madagascar, no damages or casualties have been reported, although authorities continue to assess the situation. Preparations and advisories are in effect as impacted countries brace for Chido’s anticipated landfall in Mozambique on December 15.

Chido’s recent path took it close to northern Madagascar on December 12, where post-cyclone warnings have since been lifted. However, rough sea conditions remain a concern. The cyclone is expected to make landfall in Mozambique near Cabo Delgado province, promising disastrous winds and heavy seas starting on the night of December 14, anticipated to last into December 15. Significant rainfall between 100mm to 200mm within 24 hours is predicted, alongside high waves of up to 10 meters.

As the cyclone progresses through the region, residual effects are expected in southern Malawi and potentially extending rainfall to parts of Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, and other neighboring countries. The developing weather patterns associated with Cyclone Chido appear likely to result in notable episodes of flash floods and mudslides.

In response, regional authorities are initiating their emergency plans, ensuring that preparedness efforts are reinforced. The Southern African Development Community has activated their situation room to issue daily updates and maintain ongoing assessments. In the Comoros, cyclone warnings have escalated to an orange alert, and a national emergency operational center has been established. Similar measures are underway in Mozambique and Malawi, where alerts and assessments are being conducted to mitigate losses.

Each country has engaged in community awareness and sensitization campaigns to prepare the public for potential emergency conditions. Relief operations are underway, coordinating between governmental and humanitarian partners to effectively address the anticipated challenges that Cyclone Chido may pose to the affected populations.

Tropical Cyclone Chido, which first developed between December 7 and 8, 2024, in the southeastern Indian Ocean, has escalated in intensity, classified as a severe tropical cyclone as it progressed across the ocean. This cyclone has raised significant safety concerns for millions in its projected path across Southern Africa. The cyclone’s potential to cause severe disruption has mobilized regional authorities into action to prepare for its impacts, which follow a history of devastating weather events in the area. Authorities are engaged in damage assessments and setting up relief mechanisms to support affected communities.

Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a serious risk to millions across Southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros, as it is expected to produce severe winds, heavy rain, and the potential for devastating flooding and mudslides. Authorities are actively preparing and mobilizing resources to respond to the impending crisis, ensuring that communities remain informed and safeguarded against Chido’s threats. Continuous monitoring and impactful interventions are essential to mitigate the cyclone’s anticipated effects and protect vulnerable populations.

Original Source: reliefweb.int