Death Toll from Cyclone Chido in Mozambique Surges to 45

Cyclone Chido has resulted in a rising death toll of 45 in Mozambique, with significant destruction across multiple provinces. The cyclone impacted over 181,000 individuals, causing extensive property damage and injuries. The storm’s intensity and the region’s vulnerability highlight urgent needs for disaster management and recovery efforts.

The death toll from Cyclone Chido in Mozambique has tragically risen to 45, as reported by the National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management on December 17, 2024. Initially, it was estimated that 34 fatalities had occurred following the cyclone’s landfall on December 15 in Cabo Delgado province, where 28 lives were lost. The updated figures indicated that 38 people died in Cabo Delgado, while four fatalities were reported in Nampula province and three in Niassa. Furthermore, one individual remains unaccounted for. The cyclone injured nearly 500 people and caused extensive destruction, with nearly 24,000 homes entirely destroyed and an additional 12,300 sustaining partial damage. The storm, packing winds of approximately 260 kilometers (160 miles) per hour, dropped heavy rainfall totaling about 250 millimeters (10 inches) within 24 hours, and it has impacted over 181,000 individuals. This disaster struck an already vulnerable region that frequently experiences cyclones and is dealing with the repercussions of ongoing conflict and underdevelopment.

Cyclone Chido has compounded the challenges facing northern Mozambique, particularly in the Cabo Delgado province, which is susceptible to severe weather events. This region, which faces persistent natural disasters, is also afflicted by socio-economic hardships and instability due to ongoing conflicts. These pre-existing conditions exacerbate the cyclone’s impact, highlighting the need for comprehensive disaster preparedness strategies in the area. Chido also severely impacted the island of Mayotte before reaching the mainland, where initial reports indicate significant loss of life and destruction.

In summary, the aftermath of Cyclone Chido highlights the devastating effects of natural disasters on vulnerable populations, particularly in regions like Cabo Delgado, Mozambique. The increased death toll to 45 individuals, alongside nearly 500 injuries and widespread property damage, underscores the critical need for enhanced disaster management and recovery efforts in affected areas. The cyclone’s impact is further magnified by underlying socio-economic challenges, making recovery efforts even more pressing.

Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com