Mozambique: Cyclone Chido’s Impact and Humanitarian Response Update – December 2024

Cyclone Chido has affected at least 453,971 people in Mozambique, with 77,000 receiving assistance so far. Humanitarian efforts have launched a US$88 million appeal to aid 320,000 individuals impacted, especially in Cabo Delgado and Nampula. Severe damage includes 70,400 destroyed homes and significant agricultural loss, with over 456,000 hectares inundated, threatening food security and livelihoods.

As of December 27, 2024, the aftermath of Cyclone Chido continues to unfold in Mozambique, with the number of individuals affected escalating as assessments progress. According to the latest data, approximately 453,971 people across several provinces, including Cabo Delgado and Nampula, have been impacted, with these areas comprising 98 percent of the total affected population. Emergency response efforts have mobilized resources, enabling at least 77,000 individuals to receive assistance within the first 12 days following the cyclone’s landfall.

In light of the extensive damage and rising needs, the humanitarian community has initiated a Tropical Cyclone Chido flash appeal aimed at raising US$88 million. This funding will support urgent humanitarian operations tailored to assist 320,000 individuals, including 156,000 women and girls, who have been directly impacted by the catastrophic event. Critical infrastructure has sustained widespread destruction, with over 70,400 homes destroyed and 32,200 suffering damage. Additionally, 52 health facilities were also compromised, substantially limiting access to essential medical services in the afflicted regions.

The World Food Programme’s analyses indicate that over 456,000 hectares of land have been submerged, including significant agricultural areas, resulting in alarming losses of food production and adverse effects on the livelihoods of local communities. Aid efforts are now crucial to addressing these pressing needs and restoring a sense of normalcy for the affected populations.

Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique, resulting in widespread destruction and displacing hundreds of thousands of individuals. The cyclone’s impact significantly damages infrastructure, including homes and health services. As the situation continues to develop, humanitarian efforts are crucial for providing assistance, restoring livelihoods, and addressing the substantial needs arising from the disaster. The ongoing assessments are vital to understanding the full scope of the cyclone’s effects and enabling coordinated responses to support recovery for affected communities.

The situation in Mozambique following Cyclone Chido remains dire, with hundreds of thousands affected and urgent humanitarian needs emerging. The collective responses by the government and humanitarian organizations aim to mobilize necessary resources to support immediate recovery efforts. Addressing the infrastructural damage and ensuring the well-being of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, will be pivotal in the recovery process. The ongoing assessment and relief operations will play a crucial role in mitigating the cyclone’s long-term impacts.

Original Source: reliefweb.int