Death Toll from Cyclone Chido in Mozambique Revised to 94 as Recovery Efforts Continue

Mozambique has revised the death toll from Tropical Cyclone Chido to 94, with over 620,000 affected. The cyclone caused significant destruction across Mozambique and in Mayotte. In Malawi, 13 fatalities were reported. The event exacerbates existing political unrest in Mozambique, complicating recovery efforts.

Mozambique has increased its official death toll from Tropical Cyclone Chido to 94, following the storm’s devastating impact in recent days. The cyclone, which reached category four strength, wreaked havoc across the west Indian Ocean before striking the African mainland, displacing approximately 620,000 residents, with around 500,000 directly affected in Cabo Delgado alone. The National Disaster Management Agency reported that 110,000 homes were destroyed by the storm’s fierce winds, which peaked at around 160 miles per hour, coupled with excessive rainfall of 10 inches in just one day.

The aftermath of Cyclone Chido continues to unfold, particularly in the French island territory of Mayotte, where officials are still tallying the casualties. As of the report, Mayotte’s interior ministry indicated a toll of 35 deaths and 2,500 injuries; however, there is growing concern that the final count will rise, especially among undocumented migrants inhabiting the island’s shantytowns. The storm’s effects extend to Malawi, where it is reported to have caused fatalities and injuries, albeit at a lower threshold due to reduced intensity upon arrival.

The timing of Cyclone Chido’s landfall has compounded existing challenges for Mozambique, as the nation grapples with unrest related to recent elections. Protests have erupted following President Daniel Chapo’s contested victory, leading to over 130 deaths, indicating the compounded crises faced by the population. French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent statement regarding the tragedy in Mayotte has sparked controversy, drawing criticism from political figures in France.

Despite slow relief efforts in the wake of the cyclone, both local authorities and international responders are mobilizing to address the extensive damage and human suffering caused by this climatic event. As recovery efforts begin, the full extent of the cyclone’s impact continues to be assessed in both Mozambique and the surrounding regions.

Tropical Cyclone Chido, which struck the west Indian Ocean last week, has had devastating impacts, particularly on Mozambique and the French island of Mayotte. As a category four storm with winds exceeding 260 kilometers per hour, Chido caused significant destruction of property and loss of life. The cyclone has drawn attention to the broader issues of climate change and its intensifying effects on natural disasters. Additionally, Mozambique’s ongoing political turmoil following disputed election results has made recovery efforts more challenging. The situation highlights the interplay between environmental disasters and human socio-political dynamics.

In summary, Mozambique’s death toll from Cyclone Chido has tragically increased to 94, underscoring the severe impact of this natural disaster. The cyclone not only ravaged Mozambique but also left a trail of destruction in Mayotte and Malawi. The disaster occurs against a backdrop of political unrest in Mozambique, complicating recovery efforts. The ongoing responses to Cyclone Chido will need to address both immediate humanitarian needs and longer-term recovery and political stability.

Original Source: www.abc.net.au