Mozambique: Impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido – Updated Report as of December 17, 2024
Tropical Cyclone Chido has severely affected Mozambique as of December 17, 2024, with over 174,000 individuals impacted and extensive damage to infrastructure. The cyclone produced heavy rainfall and strong winds, resulting in fatalities and injuries, particularly in Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa. Emergency responses are being activated with a financial allocation of $4 million for immediate humanitarian aid as the situation continues to unfold.
As of December 17, 2024, Mozambique faces severe impacts following the landfall of Tropical Cyclone Chido on December 15. The cyclone produced extraordinary rainfall, exceeding 250 mm within 24 hours, accompanied by wind speeds reaching 120 km/h. Key regions affected include Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa, with initial reports estimating over 174,000 individuals impacted, and critical infrastructure such as schools and healthcare facilities sustained significant damage. As the cyclone progresses to Zimbabwe, humanitarian efforts are being initiated with an allocation of $4 million by the Emergency Relief Coordinator to support immediate response efforts. The situation remains critical, with preliminary assessments indicating at least 34 fatalities and over 300 injuries, escalating as further evaluations are conducted, alongside ongoing communication challenges hindering relief operations.
Cabo Delgado Province has reported widespread devastation, particularly in districts such as Mecufi and Chiure, where nearly all structures are damaged, prompting significant humanitarian needs. The health facilities are critically strained, with the remaining providers working in inadequate conditions. Additional areas including Murrebue and Metuge are also facing severe challenges, including the urgent need for shelters, food, and medical supplies across affected communities. In Nampula Province, 46,000 people are estimated to be affected by the cyclone, compounding existing health risks such as an ongoing cholera outbreak. Meanwhile, Niassa Province reports minor impacts but remains under the threat of further rainfall. Continued convalescence and support are essential to facilitate recovery in the wake of this rapidly evolving humanitarian crisis.
The occurrence of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Mozambique marks a significant humanitarian crisis, as it impacted several provinces and resulted in devastating effects on infrastructure and safety. Cyclones are common in this region, and their impact can be overwhelming, particularly concerning flooding and wind damage. The governmental and humanitarian response is crucial in these periods for the assessment of needs and provision of necessary resources. The cyclone’s path led from Mozambique to neighboring countries, necessitating coordination between various agencies for an effective response. As such, the role of international aid and local capacity to respond to emergencies is a continual theme for this region’s resilience against natural disasters.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has caused extensive damage across Mozambique, affecting hundreds of thousands of people and critically undermining local health and safety infrastructures. The emergency response is underway, but challenges remain in addressing the immediate needs of the affected populations. It is crucial for ongoing assessments and support mechanisms to be implemented to facilitate recovery and provide aid to those in dire need. The humanitarian efforts and government responses will play a pivotal role in the communities’ stabilization as damages continue to be evaluated.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
