Tropical Storm Chido Affects Malawi: Death Toll Reaches Seven
Tropical Storm Chido has reportedly resulted in at least seven fatalities and affected over 30,000 people in Malawi, with significant damage to infrastructure. The storm, which originated northeast of Madagascar, caused widespread destruction across multiple South African nations and has prompted ongoing relief efforts by governmental and humanitarian agencies.
Tropical Storm Chido has claimed the lives of at least seven individuals in Malawi and impacted more than 30,000 others, according to officials from the nation’s disaster management agency. A preliminary report from the Department of Disaster Management Affairs indicated significant infrastructural destruction, including the removal of roofs from schools, health facilities, and residences. The storm’s wrath resulted in injuries to several persons, with three fatalities reported in Salima district and additional deaths recorded across Kasungu, Machinga, Blantyre, and Lilongwe districts.
Developing northeast of Madagascar, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique, causing widespread damage to property and displacing over 174,000 individuals in Mozambique and around 64,000 in the Comoros archipelago. In Malawi, Chido passed through as a moderate tropical storm, resulting in heavy rains and flooding across approximately 17 districts. Lucy Mtilatila, the Director for the Malawi Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, confirmed on Tuesday that the storm had weakened. Following the storm, schools resumed operations after a temporary suspension to ensure safety.
The Department of Disaster Management Affairs, represented by spokesperson Chipiliro Khamula, noted that relief efforts are underway in collaboration with humanitarian partners to assist affected households, and all search and rescue teams have been withdrawn from high-risk areas. The agency continues to monitor the situation closely as it remains vigilant against potential future developments in the region.
The impact of Tropical Storm Chido in Malawi is a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and severity of weather-related disasters in the region. The storm, which developed in the Indian Ocean, is part of broader climatic fluctuations affecting southern Africa. The humanitarian crisis triggered by such weather events is compounded by existing vulnerabilities within the communities, necessitating immediate response efforts and long-term resilience strategies to mitigate future risks.
In summary, Tropical Storm Chido has had a devastating effect in Malawi, with confirmed fatalities, injuries, and significant infrastructure damage. The disaster management agency is actively engaged in providing relief and has mobilized resources to assist those impacted by the storm. The agency remains vigilant for any further weather developments that could pose additional threats, underscoring the importance of preparedness in the face of increasing climatic challenges.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
