Cyclone Chido Wreaks Havoc in Nampula

Nampula, Mozambique–

Tropical Cyclone Chido has made landfall in the northern province of Nampula, causing significant damage and forcing thousands from their homes. Winds reaching up to 200 kilometers per hour and torrential rains have battered the region, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.

Memba district was among the hardest hit, with reports of destroyed homes, uprooted trees, and downed power lines. Luisa Meque, President of the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD), warned of the severity of the situation and urged the population to remain vigilant.

"Cyclone Chido is an extreme event and we are doing everything we can to minimize the damage and protect the population," said Meque. "We urge everyone to follow the instructions of local authorities and seek shelter in safe locations."

Local authorities are working tirelessly to assess the damage and provide assistance to affected communities. Rescue teams are being mobilized to reach remote areas, where access is hampered by damaged roads and communication outages.

While no fatalities have been reported so far, material damage is considerable. Authorities fear that the number of displaced persons will increase in the coming hours as the extent of the damage becomes clearer.

Call for Solidarity

Humanitarian organizations and the government are launching appeals for solidarity to assist cyclone Chido victims. Donations of food, water, medicine, and construction materials are urgently needed to rebuild affected communities.

Cyclone Chido is a severe blow to a region still recovering from previous extreme weather events. The resilience of the Mozambican population will be tested once again, and the international community is called upon to provide support during this time of crisis.

#CycloneChido has made landfall near Pemba, in northern #Mozambique’s #CaboDelgado province. @UNICEF is very concerned about immediate and longer term impacts on an already very vulnerable population. We are on the ground, working with partners and government to respond. pic.twitter.com/nR01FgJjPi

— Guy Taylor (@guy_taylor) December 15, 2024

El ciclón azota Pemba y Cabo Delgado pic.twitter.com/RiUzqjO87h

— Oskare (@Oskaretelesur) December 15, 2024