Flash Update on Tropical Cyclone Chido’s Impact on Southern Africa

Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on December 15, causing severe wind and rainfall, affecting 1.7 million people. The system is expected to move into Malawi, bringing further storms, with potential flooding and displacement in its wake.

On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique as a category 4 storm, impacting the region with destructive winds of up to 260 km/h and heavy rainfall totaling 250 mm within 24 hours. The cyclone struck near Pemba city, severely affecting Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. Preliminary reports indicate damage to infrastructure and homes. The cyclone’s remnants are forecasted to move into southern Malawi, expecting to bring additional heavy rain and strong winds before dissipating near Zimbabwe on December 17.

Tropical Cyclone Chido emerged in the southeastern Indian Ocean Basin in early December, intensifying to a category 4 cyclone before weakening to a category 3. The storm passed close to Madagascar and affected various islands in the Comoros, causing localized flooding and displacement. With over 1.7 million people in Mozambique and 440,000 in Malawi within the cyclone’s projected path, humanitarian concerns are heightened, prompting the UN and local authorities to enhance preparedness measures and support efforts in response to potential flooding and damage.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a significant threat to Mozambique and Southern Africa. The cyclone has already caused extensive damage, and its residual effects may exacerbate conditions in Malawi and surrounding regions, including the risk of flooding. Ongoing monitoring and humanitarian assistance are vital as the situation develops, ensuring that those affected receive adequate support.

Original Source: reliefweb.int