Madagascar Evaluates Damage Caused by Cyclone Chido as It Approaches Mozambique

Tropical Cyclone Chido is impacting regions in Southern Africa, particularly Mayotte and the Comoros, bringing severe rainfall and winds, posing risks of flooding and mudslides. Current projections indicate significant threats to about 2.5 million people in its path, especially in Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros, prompting emergency responses and preparedness actions by local authorities.

As of 14 December, Tropical Cyclone Chido has made contact with Mayotte and the Comoros, bringing with it severe winds and torrential rains that pose significant threats of flooding and mudslides in Southern Africa. Approximately 2.5 million individuals reside in the cyclone’s projected trajectory, notably affecting over 1.7 million people in Mozambique, 440,000 in Malawi, and nearly 370,000 in the Comoros. While no damage or casualties have been reported in Madagascar following Chido’s passage on 13 December, adverse weather conditions persist temporarily. The Malagasy authorities are actively assessing the cyclone’s impact, and preparations are ongoing across the region to respond to potential emergencies.

Chido is currently categorized as a dangerous tropical cyclone, expected to further impact the northwestern coast of Madagascar and advance towards Mozambique on 15 December. The cyclone’s intensity includes record-breaking wind speeds, surpassing those of Tropical Kamisy and aligning with historical cyclones, such as that in 1934. In the Comoros, damages have been reported in Anjouan, with homes and other structures compromised, although significant damage has yet to be confirmed in Mwali and Ngazidja. Search efforts continue for missing fishermen in Ngazidja.

As Chido approaches Mozambique, impactful weather is forecasted, particularly for Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces, where residents are urged to prepare for potential flooding and severe wind conditions. Rainfall amounts may exceed 200 mm over a short period, leading to flash floods and mudslides, with significant rainfall also projected for Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and several southern African nations due to the cyclone’s remnants.

Emergency responses are being implemented by various regional and national authorities to mitigate the effects of the cyclone. Continuous advisories are being issued in the affected countries, with preparations underway to ensure efficient relief efforts. The situation requires close monitoring, and humanitarian efforts are being scaled up across the region to assess damage and provide essential support to affected communities.

Tropical Cyclone Chido formed in the southeastern Indian Ocean and has rapidly intensified, impacting several regions in southern Africa. With historical comparisons to previous severe cyclones, Chido poses significant risks due to its strong winds and heavy rainfall. Its path endangers millions of lives across Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros, with authorities preparing for flood-related emergencies and damage assessments to support affected populations. Awareness and preparedness campaigns are critical as the cyclone progresses through these communities.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido presents a grave threat to millions across southern Africa as it advances towards Mozambique following its impact on Mayotte and the Comoros. Authorities are actively engaged in damage assessments and emergency preparations to safeguard communities from flooding and other hazards. Monitoring and response efforts will be critical in mitigating the effects of this intense cyclone as it moves through the region.

Original Source: allafrica.com