Tropical Cyclone Chido Devastates Malawi, Resulting in Casualties and Damage
Tropical Cyclone Chido has resulted in at least seven deaths and affected over 34,000 people in Malawi. The storm caused extensive damage to infrastructure, leading to the destruction of homes and schools. Relief efforts are underway while classes have resumed after a suspension. The storm has dissipated, but the Department of Climate Change remains vigilant.
Malawi has been severely impacted by Tropical Cyclone Chido, which has claimed the lives of at least seven individuals according to reports from disaster officials. The Malawi Department of Disaster Management Affairs disclosed that over 34,000 residents were affected, with significant damage to homes, schools, and health facilities across multiple districts. The cyclone, originating northeast of Madagascar, made landfall in Mozambique and subsequently moved through Malawi, causing heavy rainfall and flooding—especially in the southern regions. The death toll comprises three fatalities in Salima district and one each in Kasungu, Machinga, Blantyre, and Lilongwe districts. In total, 7,721 households representing 34,741 individuals have been directly impacted, while 16 injuries were also recorded.
In the wake of the storm’s passage, classes resumed in schools after a temporary suspension as a safety measure. The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services indicated that the storm has weakened, but they are vigilant regarding potential future developments in the Indian Ocean. Relief efforts are underway as authorities, in collaboration with humanitarian partners, seek to assist the affected populations. The agency has withdrawn search and rescue teams after assessing the immediate risks and needs in the region.
Tropical Cyclone Chido developed in the Indian Ocean northeast of Madagascar before making landfall near Nacala, Mozambique. Initially causing extensive damage there, Chido moved into Malawi as a moderate tropical storm, where it continued to wreak havoc through heavy rains and flooding across approximately 17 districts. The situation has raised numerous concerns about emergency preparedness and ongoing humanitarian efforts in both Malawi and the neighboring countries affected.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has left a devastating mark on Malawi, resulting in loss of life and widespread destruction. The ongoing assessment of damage and the efforts to provide relief to thousands of affected individuals highlight the critical need for resilience in the face of natural disasters. Despite the immediate challenges, the swift response from authorities and humanitarian partners provides hope for recovery and support for the impacted communities.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
