Tropical Cyclone Chido: Impact and Preparedness in Southern Africa…

Tropical Cyclone Chido hit Mayotte and the Comoros on December 14, 2024, with 2.5 million people affected, primarily in Mozambique, Malawi, and the Comoros. The cyclone is forecasted to bring heavy rains and winds, leading to flooding and mudslides. National and regional authorities are actively coordinating disaster preparedness and response efforts.

On December 14, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido severely impacted Mayotte and the Comoros, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall, leading to flooding and mudslide risks. Approximately 2.5 million individuals reside within Chido’s projected path, notably over 1.7 million in Mozambique, 440,000 in Malawi, and nearly 370,000 in the Comoros. After passing close to Madagascar on December 13, there have been no reported damages or casualties, and cyclone warnings have since been lifted along the north-western coast. Weather conditions continue to remain unsettled and are being monitored by local authorities.

Chido is anticipated to remain a dangerous tropical cyclone for the next 24 hours, particularly as it traverses the northern Mozambique Channel. Following its landfall in Mozambique, damaging winds and hazardous sea conditions are predicted along the coast on the night of December 14-15, with anticipated rainfall of 100 to 200 mm within 12 to 24 hours. Additionally, the cyclone’s remnants are expected to influence southern Malawi from December 15 to 16. Northern Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Zambia are forecasted to receive over 150 mm of rainfall, thereby increasing the possibility of flash floods and mudslides.

In response, regional and national authorities have promptly issued warnings and are executing preparedness strategies. The Southern African Development Community’s Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) has activated its situation room to provide regular updates and support cooperation among member states. Measures are in place to ensure the prepositioning of essential relief supplies and to conduct rapid needs assessments. In the Comoros, the National Meteorological Service has issued alerts, while in Mozambique, red alerts have been activated in various provinces, advising residents to take precautions. In Malawi, government agencies are ramping up disaster management efforts in anticipation of significant rainfall and wind damage caused by Chido.

The occurrence of Tropical Cyclone Chido highlights the ongoing risks posed by severe weather events in Southern Africa. As cyclones are a frequent threat in this region, understanding their impacts, both immediate and long-term, is critical for local governments and international organizations. Cyclone Chido serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of millions of individuals in its projected path. With climatic changes influencing the frequency and severity of such storms, heightened resilience measures and readiness protocols are essential to mitigate their impact.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Chido poses significant risks to millions across Southern Africa, with potential for devastating flooding and wind damage as it approaches Mozambique. The organized response from regional authorities and humanitarian organizations showcases the importance of preparedness in mitigating disaster impacts. Continuous monitoring and efficient resource deployment will be vital to mitigate the effects of Chido as it progresses through the region. The situation remains fluid, and authorities must remain vigilant in their response efforts.

Original Source: www.unocha.org