Tropical Cyclone Chido: A Historic Weather Event Impacting Agalega and Beyond

Tropical Cyclone Chido struck the Agalega Islands as the strongest cyclone in the region in over 50 years, registering winds up to 222 km/h. The storm is moving toward Madagascar, Mayotte, and Mozambique, where it is expected to produce severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds. Historical context includes significant destruction in previous cyclones, notably Cyclone Andry in 1983.

Tropical Cyclone Chido has made history by striking the Agalega Islands as the most powerful cyclone prevailing over the region in the past 50 years. The cyclone approached the Agalega Islands early on December 12, 2024, following a period of rapid intensification that saw wind speeds escalate dramatically from 111 km/h (69 mph) to a peak of 222 km/h (138 mph) in just 24 hours. After making landfall, Chido continues its trajectory toward Madagascar, Mayotte, and Mozambique, potentially impacting these regions with strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Chido emerged as the third named storm of the 2024/25 Southwest Indian Ocean cyclone season on December 10, 2024. It quickly intensified, ultimately becoming a category 4-equivalent cyclone by the time it impacted the Agalega Islands. This cyclone is notably the strongest to have affected the area since Cyclone Andry in 1983, which tragically resulted in one fatality and considerable destruction.

At approximately 00:00 UTC on December 12, the cyclone reached the Agalega North Island, causing severe weather conditions. The cyclone is expected to pass near the northern coastline of Madagascar on December 13 and approach Mayotte shortly thereafter before most likely making landfall near Nacala, Mozambique, on December 15. While the cyclone is predicted to weaken as it nears Madagascar, warm temperatures and strong winds near Mayotte may sustain its intensity.

Meteorological forecasts indicate a significant risk of deteriorating weather across northern Madagascar. From Friday morning, conditions are anticipated to deteriorate severely, with heavy rains and gusty winds posing risks to the populace. Similarly, Mayotte has been placed on cyclone pre-alert as dangerous conditions are projected from Saturday onward. Effects may also extend to the Comoros, with strong winds and potential flooding expected.

While the precise impact area within Mozambique remains uncertain, residents are urged to remain vigilant and heed local weather advisories as the storm approaches. The ongoing developments regarding Cyclone Chido highlight the importance of weather preparedness in the face of extreme meteorological events.

Tropical Cyclone Chido has developed within the context of the 2024/25 Southwest Indian Ocean cyclone season, showcasing a pattern of rapid intensification which is characteristic of such phenomena. The cyclone’s construction in conditions conducive to development underscores both its strength and the potential for extensive impact on vulnerable coastal communities. The Agalega Islands, being sparsely populated, face unique challenges in response to such extreme weather events, compounded by past cyclonic activity that has historically led to destructive outcomes.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has emerged as a significant meteorological threat, marking its place as a historical cyclone affecting the Agalega Islands and now posing risks to Madagascar, Mayotte, and Mozambique. The conditions associated with Cyclone Chido serve as a reminder of the power of tropical systems and the necessity for preparedness and response in facing such natural disasters. Authorities and residents are advised to remain informed and take appropriate actions to safeguard their safety.

Original Source: watchers.news