Mozambique Faces Aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido as Casualties Rise

The report details the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Mozambique, which made landfall on 15 December 2024, causing significant destruction in Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces. An estimated 174,000 people were affected, with 34 reported deaths. Urgent humanitarian needs include food, shelter, and medical supplies, while ongoing assessments aim to identify further impacts and resource requirements. Limited response capacity due to supply shortages remains a critical challenge.

On 15 December 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique, resulting in extensive damage due to severe winds reaching 120 km/h and heavy rainfall of up to 250 mm in just 24 hours. Following its landfall, the cyclone traversed into Malawi and then Tete province. The most severely affected areas are Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa, with significant damages reported in housing, infrastructure, and local health systems. By 17 December, approximately 174,000 individuals have been estimated to be impacted, alongside 34 fatalities and hundreds injured. Limited resources are constraining the humanitarian response, despite an emergency relief allocation of $4 million to bolster the ongoing efforts. Assessments continue to uncover further needs, emphasizing the urgency for shelter, food, and healthcare supplies. Areas such as Mecufi and Chiure report near-total destruction with an overwhelming requirement for medical and logistical support. In Nampula province, where cholera outbreaks are a growing concern, authorities are mobilizing resources to counteract the cyclone’s aftermath and its related health crises. The situation remains fluid, and the humanitarian partners are actively coordinating to address the recovery needs as assessments are completed.

The cyclone season poses a significant threat to regions in Mozambique, often leading to devastating effects on communities. The current situation arises against this backdrop of frequent natural disasters, including cyclones and heavy rains, which disrupt lives and livelihoods. Tropical Cyclone Chido, classified as an intense tropical cyclone, exemplifies these challenges with its sudden onset and severe impact. Authorities are focused on immediate emergency responses while more comprehensive recovery plans are formulated to address long-term needs. The report highlights the critical loss of infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and essential services, stressing vulnerability among affected populations. The government and international partners are under pressure to alleviate the suffering and restore stability in the aftermath of this climatic adversity.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has severely impacted Mozambique, particularly in Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces, with a considerable number of casualties and widespread destruction of infrastructure reported. Immediate humanitarian needs encompass food, shelter, and medical care, as well as protection services for vulnerable groups. Continued assessments are crucial for streamlining relief efforts and ensuring that the most affected communities receive the necessary support. The collaboration between local authorities, humanitarian partners, and the communities is vital for a coordinated response that addresses both immediate and long-term recovery needs.

Original Source: www.unocha.org