In brief
Mozambique faces severe consequences after Cyclone Chido made landfall, resulting in 94 deaths, over 768 injuries, and disproportionately affecting education and healthcare infrastructure. Government officials emphasize the need for resilience in disaster planning amid the ongoing climate crisis.
Cyclone Chido has tragically claimed the lives of 94 individuals in Mozambique since its landfall last week, according to local authorities. The National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management (INGD) reported that an additional 768 people were injured, impacting over 622,000 residents in various capacities due to the cyclone's destruction.Making landfall on December 15, Chido brought with it ferocious winds reaching 260 km/h (160 mph), coupled with 250mm of rainfall within the first day. The cyclone initially caused havoc in the French territory of Mayotte before advancing to Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.In Mozambique, the cyclone's path led to severe devastation across the northern provinces, particularly Cabo Delgado, before continuing inland through Niassa and Nampula. The INGD has reported major impacts on education and healthcare, with over 109,793 students directly affected due to significant damage to school infrastructures. Furthermore, 52 health facilities suffered damage, threatening access to essential medical services, particularly in areas that were already underserved prior to the storm.In light of the disaster, Daniel Chapo, leader of the ruling party in Mozambique, has confirmed that the government is mobilizing support "on all levels." During a visit to Cabo Delgado, one of the hardest-hit regions, he assured residents that collaborative efforts are underway between the government and the INGD to assist those impacted in resources-stricken areas including Mecúfi, Nampula, Memba, and Niassa.Chido had previously torn through Mayotte, marking it as the most devastating storm to affect the archipelago in 90 years, leaving many without basic necessities. The interior ministry reported a confirmed death toll of 35 in Mayotte, with experts warning the numbers may rise significantly as damage assessments continue. Over 1,300 officers are currently deployed to aid in recovery efforts. The local populace struggles with access to clean water, prompting advisories to boil water before consumption.Details reveal that around 100 tonnes of supplies are delivered daily, supported by an air bridge between Mayotte, Reunion, and mainland France. The interior minister shared that on a recent Friday, 80 tonnes of food and 50 tonnes of water were distributed to those in need.As tropical cyclones such as Chido exemplify the catastrophic outcomes associated with climate change, authorities have reiterated the importance of resilience in infrastructure planning. The INGD highlighted the need to address vulnerabilities exacerbated by climate change, which significantly contributes to the intensity and frequency of such severe weather events.
