Malawi Issues High Alert as Tropical Cyclone Chido Approaches
Malawi is on high alert for Tropical Cyclone Chido, which is projected to bring heavy rainfall and flooding to southern districts. The cyclone, currently located northeast of Madagascar, maintains winds of 250 km/h and is expected to land in Mozambique. Preparations include evacuations in flood-prone areas, while the World Food Program is ready to provide assistance amid ongoing El Niño effects.
Malawi has declared a state of high alert in response to the impending impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which meteorological experts warn will bring substantial rainfall and potential flooding to the southern region of the country. Currently located in the Indian Ocean northeast of Madagascar, Cyclone Chido retains maximum wind speeds of 250 kilometers per hour and is projected to maintain this strength through Saturday before progressing westward at a speed of 22 kilometers per hour.
The cyclone is anticipated to affect eleven districts in southern Malawi, including Mangochi, Machinga, and Blantyre, as it approaches Mozambique and is expected to make landfall on Sunday. In preparation, authorities have advised residents in flood-prone areas to seek higher ground and heed evacuation orders. “We have alerted all [district] councils and activated all clusters for swift preparatory and anticipatory actions,” stated Chipiliro Khamula, a spokesperson for the Department of Disaster Management Affairs.
This cyclone follows the devastating Cyclone Freddy of the previous year, which resulted in over 1,000 fatalities and extensive damage to agricultural assets in southern Malawi and surrounding areas. Amid these challenges, Malawi continues to grapple with the consequences of El Niño, which has led to severe drought and food shortages affecting a quarter of its 20 million residents. Paul Turnbull, the country director for the World Food Program, affirmed that they maintain food stockpiles to address needs relating to both the ongoing El Niño situation and potential cyclone repercussions.
Tropical Cyclone Chido poses a significant threat to Malawi, particularly affecting the southern regions where heavy rains and flooding are anticipated. The cyclone’s trajectory places it near Mozambique, which compounds concerns given the recent history of Cyclone Freddy that devastated the region. This context is further complicated by existing food insecurity issues driven by El Niño-induced droughts, necessitating a concerted response from both local authorities and international aid organizations.
In conclusion, Malawi’s preparedness for Tropical Cyclone Chido is marked by proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable populations against flooding risks. The cyclone’s imminent arrival highlights the challenges faced by Malawi, particularly in light of past disasters and current food security concerns exacerbated by climate phenomena. Coordinated efforts among government agencies and humanitarian organizations are critical to mitigate the cyclone’s impact.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
