UN Humanitarian Response to Cyclone Chido in Mozambique and Vanuatu Earthquake

The UN is responding to the severe impacts of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Mozambique, affecting 184,000 people, and an earthquake in Vanuatu, resulting in fatalities and extensive damage. Humanitarian efforts focus on providing shelter, medical assistance, and preventing disease transmission in both regions.

The United Nations has reported ongoing humanitarian efforts in Mozambique following the devastating impacts of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which struck over the weekend, adversely affecting approximately 184,000 individuals. The cyclone has tragically resulted in 45 fatalities and about 500 injuries, mainly in Cabo Delgado province, where over 35,000 homes, nearly 50 health centres, and almost 150 schools sustained severe damage. The UN is mobilizing support to deliver food and shelter to the most affected families while deploying mobile medical teams to deliver crucial health services and prevent waterborne diseases.

In the aftermath of Chido, which initially hit the French territory of Mayotte prior to Mozambique, the UN reported on the catastrophic effects experienced in Mayotte, where wind speeds surpassed 200 kilometers per hour. The storm caused significant loss of life and property, leading to a national mourning declaration by French President Emmanuel Macron. Notably, Chido skirted Madagascar, an unusual path that might have mitigated its intensity before impacting Mozambique on December 15.

Additionally, the UN is responding to a significant earthquake that struck Vanuatu, resulting in nine fatalities and over 200 injuries. A state of emergency has been declared, with the government seeking international assistance to enhance national efforts. The situation remains critical, with extensive damage reported to hospitals and roads, leaving numerous communities isolated. The UN’s Disaster Assessment and Coordination teams are on the ground to assist in response and recovery efforts, which focus on immediate needs such as medical supplies and safe drinking water.

Tropical Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc in Mozambique and Mayotte. The cyclone, exhibiting severe wind speeds and torrential rains, has led to substantial destruction across both regions. In Mozambique, it has affected hundreds of thousands, leading to widespread fatalities and injuries. Concurrently, an earthquake in Vanuatu has compounded the crisis in the Pacific region, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid in response to natural disasters.

In summary, the UN is actively engaged in providing humanitarian aid following the devastating effects of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Mozambique and an earthquake in Vanuatu. Efforts are underway to assist affected families, prevent disease outbreaks, and meet immediate emergency needs. These incidents underscore the critical vulnerability of communities to natural disasters and the ongoing need for international support and cooperation in disaster response efforts.

Original Source: www.miragenews.com