The Indian Ocean islands of Comoros, Madagascar, and Mayotte are bracing for the impact of Cyclone Chido, an intense tropical storm approaching Africa’s east coast. The storm is expected to bring severe winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread disruption as it barrels toward the mainland.
Comoros: Schools Close as Storm Approaches
In Comoros, a small archipelago, authorities ordered the closure of schools on Friday, anticipating the cyclone’s arrival early Saturday. The storm is expected to pass near the northern tip of Madagascar before directly impacting Comoros.
Mayotte on Red Alert
Mayotte, a French territory located south of Comoros, has been placed under red alert—the highest warning level—by the French national weather service. Preparations are underway to mitigate the potential damage as the cyclone is projected to strike the island on Friday night.
Madagascar: Evacuations and Warnings
Madagascar’s northern Diana region is also under threat. Alerts were sent via cellphones and radio broadcasts starting Thursday, urging residents to take precautions. Evacuations have begun in the areas expected to experience the most severe impact, with nearly 20,000 people at risk.
Authorities have been delivering emergency supplies, including food, water pumps, generators, and chainsaws, to affected regions since Tuesday.
Mozambique Issues Red Alert
On the African mainland, Mozambique has declared a red alert for its northern provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula. The cyclone is expected to make landfall early Sunday, with the Mozambique National Meteorological Institute forecasting winds of up to 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph).
Ana Cristina, director of Mozambique’s National Emergency Operations Center, estimated that 2.5 million people in these provinces could be affected and may require rescue and assistance.
Far-Reaching Effects Expected
Even landlocked Zimbabwe is expected to feel the effects of Cyclone Chido, underscoring the storm’s vast reach.
International Support and Preparedness
The French government has deployed around 110 emergency personnel, including firefighters from Reunion and rescue specialists, to Mayotte. The aid includes search dogs and three tons of emergency equipment, such as tools for rubble rescue operations.
Cyclone Season and Climate Change Concerns
The Indian Ocean’s cyclone season, which runs from December to March, has brought increasingly destructive storms in recent years. Cyclone Idai in 2019 claimed over 1,300 lives across Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, while Cyclone Freddy in 2022 left more than 1,000 dead in multiple countries.
Studies indicate that climate change is intensifying these storms, leading to stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and more frequent flooding.
Health Risks Post-Storm
Crisis24, a risk management organization, warned that Cyclone Chido could trigger dangerous flooding and landslides. Stagnant water from the storm may lead to outbreaks of cholera, dengue fever, and malaria, mirroring the public health crises seen after Cyclone Idai.
Looking Ahead
As Cyclone Chido approaches, emergency teams across the region are preparing for its impact. The storm highlights the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and climate resilience in the face of increasingly severe weather events.
