Mozambique: Impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido and Humanitarian Response
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on 15 December 2024, leading to significant rainfall and wind damage. Nearly 174,158 people have been affected, resulting in at least 34 deaths and numerous injuries. With critical needs for shelter, food, and healthcare in affected areas, emergency relief efforts are underway with a US$4 million allocation for humanitarian response.
Tropical Cyclone Chido struck Mozambique on 15 December 2024, causing devastating rainfalls exceeding 250 mm in just 24 hours and winds up to 120 km/h. The cyclone subsequently moved to Malawi and is expected to dissipate in Zimbabwe on 17 December. Reports indicate that the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa have sustained the most significant damage, with an estimated 174,158 individuals affected. The losses include substantial destruction of homes and infrastructure, resulting in at least 34 fatalities and 319 injuries. Emergency response efforts have been hampered by limited supply availability, although the Emergency Relief Coordinator has allocated US$4 million for humanitarian support.
The National Institute for Natural Disaster (INGD) has provided initial estimates of the cyclone’s impact, indicating that over 35,000 houses have been damaged or destroyed, alongside the destruction of schools and health facilities. In Cabo Delgado Province, areas such as Mecufi and Chiure have reported extensive damage, with 100% of homes affected in some regions. There is an urgent need for assistance in healthcare, food, and shelter for thousands displaced by the cyclone. Humanitarian agencies emphasize the necessity for safe spaces for vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, to ensure their protection in the aftermath of this disaster.
In Nampula Province, the impact is also significant, with over 46,000 individuals affected and early reports suggesting challenges due to ongoing cholera outbreaks in the area. The local government and humanitarian partners are mobilizing resources to address urgent needs while continuing efforts to restore communication and infrastructure damage. The INGD is committed to further assessments and aid distribution as they strive to aid the recovery of affected communities across Mozambique.
This report analyzes the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Chido, a significant weather event that made landfall in Mozambique on 15 December 2024. The cyclone has prompted emergency management agencies to respond urgently due to its devastating consequences on human life and infrastructure. The destruction caused by Chido particularly affected the regions of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa, leading to fatalities and displacements. This document serves to disseminate crucial updates regarding the ongoing humanitarian efforts and assessments being conducted in the aftereffects of this cyclone, highlighting the needs for international assistance and community support.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido has resulted in severe destruction across Mozambique, impacting tens of thousands of individuals and complicating existing humanitarian crises in the region. Key areas affected are Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa, with substantial damage to homes, schools, and healthcare facilities reported. The allocation of emergency funds seeks to mitigate the immediate needs of those affected, while ongoing assessments are paramount to ascertain the full extent of the damage and the necessary intervention measures required for recovery.
Original Source: www.unocha.org
