Cyclone Chido Devastates Mozambique, Death Toll Reaches 94

Cyclone Chido has caused 94 fatalities and 768 injuries in northern Mozambique, displacing over 622,610 people. Infrastructure has suffered severe damage, with substantial impacts noted across schools and health facilities. National mourning has been declared by President Filipe Nyusi, and urgent support for recovery efforts is needed.

The death toll from Cyclone Chido in northern Mozambique has tragically risen to 94, with 768 injuries reported, as per the latest figures from the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD). The cyclone struck on December 15, unleashing severe storms and relentless rain, particularly impacting Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces. Over 123,000 families, comprising approximately 622,610 individuals, have been adversely affected, with more than 140,000 homes sustaining partial to total destruction.

Moreover, the cyclone inflicted considerable damage to essential public infrastructure, with 250 schools, 89 public buildings, and 52 healthcare facilities reported as impacted. Agricultural areas have been severely flooded, further exacerbating the vulnerabilities within the affected regions. The INGD has implemented two accommodation centers that are currently sheltering 1,349 individuals; however, the extensive devastation presents formidable obstacles to recovery and humanitarian efforts.

In a heartfelt address delivered from the Presidential Palace on Thursday evening, President Filipe Nyusi declared a two-day national mourning period, extending his sympathies to the families of the victims and those affected by this natural disaster. Both local authorities and international humanitarian organizations are actively requesting assistance to meet the urgent needs of the impacted communities.

Cyclone Chido is a powerful tropical cyclone that wreaked havoc in northern Mozambique, bringing devastating winds and rainfall. The affected regions have a history of vulnerability to such climatic events, often resulting in widespread destruction and humanitarian crises. The impact of Cyclone Chido has highlighted the need for increased disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience to safeguard communities against future environmental threats.

In conclusion, Cyclone Chido has had a catastrophic impact on northern Mozambique, with the rising death toll and substantial injuries signifying a dire humanitarian crisis. The extensive damage to housing and critical infrastructure underscores the urgent need for aid and support for the survivors. President Filipe Nyusi’s announcement of national mourning reflects the profound loss experienced, and coordinated efforts by local and international entities are essential for the recovery and assistance of affected populations.

Original Source: www.shine.cn