Indian Ocean Islands Brace for Cyclone Chido’s Impact
MORONI, Comoros (AP) — The Indian Ocean islands of Comoros, Madagascar, and Mayotte are preparing for the powerful Cyclone Chido, which is expected to make its way toward Africa’s east coast in the coming days.
Comoros Takes Precautionary Measures
The small archipelago of Comoros ordered schools to close as authorities brace for the cyclone’s arrival early Saturday. Officials have warned residents to prepare for severe weather as Cyclone Chido’s path is projected to pass near the northern tip of Madagascar before affecting the French territory of Mayotte.
Madagascar on High Alert
Madagascar, which faces frequent cyclone activity during the December-to-March season, has begun evacuations in the northern Diana region, where the storm is expected to hit hardest. Authorities have issued imminent danger warnings to nearly 20,000 residents in affected areas. Alerts have been broadcast via radio and sent to cellphones, urging residents to take precautions.
The government has been delivering emergency supplies, including food, water pumps, generators, and chainsaws, since Tuesday to prepare for potential destruction.
Mayotte Prepares for the Worst
The French territory of Mayotte, located south of Comoros, has been placed under a red alert—the highest warning level—by the French national weather service. The French government is deploying around 110 emergency workers, including firefighters from nearby Reunion and personnel from mainland France. They are also sending three tons of emergency equipment, including search dogs and specialists trained in rescuing people from collapsed structures.
Mainland Mozambique Issues Warnings
On the African mainland, Mozambique has issued a red alert for the northern provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula. Authorities estimate that over 2.5 million people may be affected when Cyclone Chido makes landfall early Sunday.
The Mozambique National Meteorological Institute forecasts winds of up to 200 kph (124 mph), and emergency teams are preparing for widespread damage. Ana Cristina, director of the National Emergency Operations Center, emphasized the need to prepare for large-scale rescues.
Impact on Landlocked Zimbabwe
Even landlocked Zimbabwe is expected to experience the effects of Cyclone Chido, with officials warning of potential flooding and infrastructure damage.
Cyclone Season Intensifies in the Indian Ocean
Cyclone Chido is the latest in a series of intense tropical storms that have battered the region in recent years, exacerbated by climate change. Previous cyclones like Idai in 2019 and Freddy in 2022 caused widespread devastation, leaving thousands dead across Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.
Risks Beyond the Immediate Storm
Crisis24, a risk management company, has warned that Cyclone Chido could trigger severe flooding and landslides. Additionally, stagnant water from the storm could lead to outbreaks of cholera, dengue fever, and malaria, as seen after Cyclone Idai.
Preparedness and International Support
As the region braces for Cyclone Chido, preparations and support from local governments and international agencies aim to mitigate the storm’s impact. While the immediate focus is on saving lives and property, the long-term challenges of rebuilding and addressing the growing severity of cyclones due to climate change remain critical concerns.
The coming days will reveal the full extent of Cyclone Chido’s impact on the Indian Ocean islands and the African mainland.
