Dozens in Mozambique Killed by 'Intense' Cyclone: A Heart-wrenching Tragedy
At least 34 people have died due to one of the strongest storms on record, Cyclone Chido, that hit northern Mozambique last Sunday. According to the National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management (INGD), the situation is heart-wrenching with fears that the number will continue to rise. This destructive cyclone passed, leaving behind trails of damage, not only to Mozambique, but also to the Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte, a French overseas department.
Cyclone Chido's Path of Destruction
Cyclone Chido first brought destruction to Mayotte before it swept across the Mozambique Channel and hit northern provinces of Mozambique, including Cabo Delgado, Niassa, and Nampula. This area, already suffering from frequent cyclones, has been hit hard by the cyclone's fierce winds, reaching speeds of up to 260 km/h (160 mph). In the aftermath, more than 34,000 Mozambican families have been left homeless, and vital infrastructure has been destroyed, including schools, health facilities, and fishing boats.
The deaths reported in Mozambique include that of a three-year-old girl, while several people have been killed by falling debris, including brick walls. Rescue and recovery operations have so far been hampered by power and communication blackouts. At least 200,000 people have been left without power, according to EDM, the state-owned power company.
Mayotte: A Tragic Toll
In Mayotte, the situation is just as bad. Cyclone Chido was the most violent to hit the region in more than 90 years, and the official death toll currently stands at 21. There are, however, fears that the actual number of fatalities could run into hundreds. Widespread infrastructure damage, including downed power lines and impassable roads, is seriously hampering emergency response efforts. The Red Cross spokesperson, Tommaso Della Longa, described the island as "completely destroyed and washed away," and among the missing were more than 200 volunteers of the Red Cross. To prevent looting in the midst of such chaos, French authorities have issued a night-time curfew.
This tragedy follows closely on the heels of another devastating cyclone: just last year, one of the longest-lived storms on record in the Southern Hemisphere, Cyclone Freddy, crashed through Mozambique, killing over 180 people. The World Meteorological Organization recognized the storm for its unusual longevity. These storms are having an impact that cannot be measured on the people of Mozambique, and recovery will be very long and hard.
How to Help and Stay Informed
In the face of these overwhelming challenges, the international community is encouraged to help in relief work for Mozambique and Mayotte. Donations to recognized humanitarian organizations and emergency-aid funds go toward funding food, shelter, and medical supplies for affected victims.
The weather is not getting any milder; the world remains in continuous observation of disastrous climate changes and their unbearable effects on vulnerable communities. Support or be in touch with different aid efforts when possible. We extend our thoughts to the people of the entire affected regions from this tragic cyclone.
Stay tuned for more on this unfolding disaster.