Cyclone Chido, one of the most powerful storms to hit Southeast Africa in recent years, has left a trail of destruction across several countries, including Mozambique, Mayotte, Malawi, and the Comoros. The cyclone, which formed on December 5, 2024, rapidly intensified and reached peak intensity on December 12, with winds reaching up to 250 km/h (155 mph) and a minimum central pressure of 929 hPa (27.43 inHg)2.
Impact on Mozambique
Mozambique bore the brunt of Cyclone Chido’s fury, with the storm making landfall in the Cabo Delgado province on December 15. The cyclone caused widespread destruction, claiming at least 34 lives and injuring over 319 people. Thousands of homes were destroyed, and entire communities were left in ruins. The National Institute of Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGC) reported that 174,158 people were affected by the storm, with 35,000 houses either damaged or destroyed.
Devastation in Mayotte
The French overseas territory of Mayotte was also severely impacted by Cyclone Chido. The island experienced catastrophic damage, with thousands of residents unaccounted for and most shantytowns completely destroyed4. The capital, Mamoudzou, saw widespread destruction, with many buildings losing their roofs and debris scattered across the city. The death toll in Mayotte is estimated to be between 31 and 34, with hundreds of people still missing.
Effects in Malawi and the Comoros
Cyclone Chido continued its destructive path, affecting Malawi and the Comoros. In Malawi, at least 34,741 people were affected, with 7 deaths reported across 14 districts. The storm caused significant damage to infrastructure, including schools and health facilities. In the Comoros, a week-long national mourning was declared following the cyclone’s impact, with at least five people injured and 64,167 affected, including 171 who lost their homes1.
Climate Change and Cyclone Intensity
Climate scientists have warned that storms in the region are becoming more intense and frequent due to human-caused climate change. Warmer ocean temperatures provide the energy needed for cyclones to form and strengthen, leading to more powerful and destructive storms. Cyclone Chido is a stark reminder of the increasing threat posed by climate change to vulnerable regions.
Humanitarian Response
In the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, humanitarian organizations have mobilized to provide aid and support to affected communities. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other agencies are working to provide food, water, and medical assistance to those in need1. The French government has also pledged to restore water supplies and provide emergency aid to Mayotte.
Conclusion
Cyclone Chido has left a lasting impact on Southeast Africa, highlighting the urgent need for climate action and improved disaster preparedness. As the region begins to rebuild, the international community must come together to support recovery efforts and address the underlying causes of these increasingly severe weather events.
