Tropical Cyclone Chido Claims Seven Lives in Malawi, Displaces Thousands



Malawi is grappling with the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Chido, which has claimed the lives of at least seven people and displaced over 30,000 others, according to a report released on Tuesday by the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA).
The storm, which originated in the Indian Ocean northeast of Madagascar, made landfall in Mozambique on Sunday before sweeping across Malawi, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Officials have reported widespread damage to infrastructure, including schools, health facilities, and residential homes.

Chipiliro Khamula, spokesperson for DoDMA, revealed that 7,721 households—representing approximately 34,741 individuals—have been affected by the cyclone. The death toll includes three fatalities in Salima district, with the districts of Kasungu, Machinga, Blantyre, and Lilongwe each reporting one death.
Emergency response teams are conducting detailed assessments to determine the full extent of the damage and coordinate relief efforts. Preliminary findings indicate that the storm's strong winds and heavy rains not only displaced thousands but also severely disrupted access to essential services.

Cyclone Chido initially formed over the Indian Ocean as a tropical depression before intensifying into a cyclone. It made landfall near Nacala, Mozambique, where it caused significant destruction before moving inland toward Malawi. The storm’s impact highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in the region, which experts attribute to climate change.

Authorities in Malawi have called for international assistance to support relief efforts, including the provision of food, temporary shelter, and medical supplies. Local communities and non-governmental organizations are also mobilizing resources to help those in need.

As the nation mourns the loss of life and grapples with the widespread devastation, efforts to rebuild and provide humanitarian aid are underway. The government has urged citizens to remain vigilant as weather-related risks persist.

This marks another sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by nations in the region due to severe weather patterns, underscoring the need for enhanced disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies.

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