Impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido on Mozambique: December 2024 Update

Tropical Cyclone Chido, which struck Mozambique on December 15, 2024, has significantly impacted over 174,000 individuals, leading to 34 deaths and extensive damages across multiple provinces including Cabo Delgado and Niassa. Relief efforts face challenges due to supply shortages, although $4 million has been allocated for humanitarian response. Immediate needs include food, medical supplies, and infrastructure repair to support recovery efforts.

On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique, unleashing torrential rains exceeding 250 mm within 24 hours and winds reaching over 120 km/h. After impacting Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces the hardest, the cyclone moved to Malawi and subsequently Tete province, with expectations to dissipate near Zimbabwe by December 17. Initial assessments indicate that approximately 174,000 individuals are affected, with at least 34 fatalities and significant infrastructure damage including houses, schools, and health facilities. Supplies remain limited, complicating relief efforts despite a $4 million allocation for humanitarian assistance.

In Cabo Delgado, areas such as Pemba, Mecufi, and Chiure faced devastating impacts, with reports of 100% destruction of dwellings in some districts. The healthcare system is critically affected, with facilities unable to operate effectively due to damage and supply loss. The situation is dire, as urgent needs for food, shelter, and medical supplies escalate. There are heightened concerns for vulnerable populations, particularly women, children, and the displaced, underlining the need for structured protection and support initiatives.

Cyclone Chido marked a significant meteorological event for Mozambique, compounding existing humanitarian challenges in a region already vulnerable to extreme weather fluctuations. The cyclone’s trajectory and intensity showcased the threats posed by climate-related events to both urban and rural populations. The immediate effects have not only resulted in loss of life but have also exacerbated pre-existing vulnerabilities among displaced communities and those living in precarious conditions. These circumstances necessitate a swift and coordinated humanitarian response to mitigate the cyclone’s impact and support recovery efforts.

The ramifications of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Mozambique have been severe, with thousands affected, lives lost, and critical infrastructure damaged. Urgent action is required to provide aid to the impacted populations, focusing on necessities such as food, medical supplies, and shelter. Furthermore, the emphasis on protecting vulnerable groups amid this crisis is paramount to fostering resilience and alleviating the human toll of such natural disasters in the future.

Original Source: reliefweb.int