Rebuilding After the Storm: Cyclone Chido’s Devastation in Mozambique 

Pemba, Mozambique, December 16, 2024 – In the wake of Cyclone Chido, which struck the southwestern Indian Ocean on December 15, the city of Pemba has initiated a significant rebuilding and cleanup effort.

Classified as a Category 4 storm by the French weather service, Cyclone Chido unleashed winds exceeding 220 kph (136 mph), wreaking havoc across the region.

Widespread Destruction in Cabo Delgado

The cyclone first impacted Cabo Delgado province, home to approximately 2 million residents, where numerous homes, schools, and health facilities were either partially or completely destroyed.

The destruction has left many families displaced, with shelters established to accommodate those affected while others begin the arduous task of rebuilding their severely damaged properties.

A spokesperson from UNICEF has warned that many communities may remain isolated from essential services such as schools and healthcare for weeks.

Local authorities have also raised alarms about the heightened risk of landslides in the aftermath of the storm.

The Cyclone Season’s Toll

Cyclone season in the southwestern Indian Ocean runs from December to March, and southern Africa has recently faced a series of powerful storms.

In 2019, Cyclone Idai resulted in over 1,300 fatalities, primarily affecting Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.

Last year, Cyclone Freddy caused more than 1,000 deaths across various countries in the region.

These cyclones not only threaten lives but also bring risks of flooding and landslides. Stagnant water left in their wake can lead to outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera, along with dengue fever and malaria.

Cyclone Chido’s Path of Destruction

Before reaching Mozambique, Cyclone Chido caused widespread damage in Mayotte, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, leading to numerous fatalities as it approached Africa’s eastern coastline.

The nearby Comoros islands were also heavily impacted, prompting local authorities to issue the highest alert levels in certain regions.

Inland countries such as Malawi and Zimbabwe are bracing for potential impacts from the cyclone.

Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs has warned residents about expected flooding and advised those in at-risk areas to seek higher ground.

Similarly, Zimbabwean authorities have recommended that some individuals prepare for possible evacuations.

Climate Change and Increasing Cyclone Severity

Research indicates that cyclones are becoming more severe due to climate change.

Unfortunately, poorer countries in southern Africa—regions that contribute minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions—are facing the brunt of these devastating humanitarian crises.

As Pemba begins its recovery efforts following Cyclone Chido’s destruction, communities are coming together to rebuild their lives while grappling with the ongoing threats posed by climate change and extreme weather events.

The need for international support and local resilience is more critical than ever as these communities strive to recover from yet another catastrophic storm.

Source: africanews