Severe Impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Southern Africa

Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, bringing winds of 80 km/h and over 250 mm of rain, resulting in the destruction of more than 5,800 homes. Communication is hampered due to power outages, while the cyclone has affected regions in Malawi and is expected to dissipate near Zimbabwe. Emergency updates stress the importance of monitoring weather reports.

Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused significant devastation after making landfall in Mozambique on December 15, bringing with it gusts of wind reaching 80 km/h, torrential rains exceeding 250 mm within a 24-hour period, and thunderstorms. The impact of the cyclone has led the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to report the destruction of over 5,800 homes, rendering many families without shelter. Communal infrastructure has also suffered with the damaging of 41 classrooms and downed power poles affecting approximately 2,500 households, with further assessments expected to highlight additional damages.

Reports from Pemba indicate that residents are facing challenges with intermittent mobile communication and power outages, prompting individuals to conserve their phone battery for critical communications. The cyclone had previously wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French territory situated near Mozambique, making landfall there as a Category 4 cyclone with winds exceeding 220 km/h, decimating entire neighborhoods.

As of December 16, Chido has moved inland towards Malawi with sustained intensity classified as a minimal moderate tropical storm, delivering strong winds and rainfall estimated between 100 and 150 mm. The center of the cyclone has progressed through southern Malawi, and it is anticipated that Chido will re-enter Mozambique and dissipate near Zimbabwe by December 17. Residents are being urged to adhere to weather advisories from their national meteorological services to remain informed about the cyclone’s evolving trajectory.

This article discusses the severe impacts of Tropical Cyclone Chido on Southern Africa, particularly its landfall in Mozambique and previous devastation in Mayotte. Tropical cyclones are weather systems characterized by strong winds and significant rainfall, often leading to widespread damage in coastal regions. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) plays a vital role in assessing and responding to such natural disasters, providing updates on damages and risks to communities in affected areas.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has inflicted substantial damage in Southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, where thousands of homes have been destroyed, and families have been affected. The cyclone’s impact was felt prior in Mayotte, and its path continues to threaten regions including Malawi and Zimbabwe. It is imperative for residents to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts to ensure safety and preparedness during this critical time.

Original Source: www.vaticannews.va