Cyclone Chido

Intense Tropical Cyclone Chido: A Devastating Storm in Southeast Africa

Imagine a storm so intense, it could be compared to a cyclone of biblical proportions, wreaking havoc on the southeastern coast of Africa. This was Intense Tropical Cyclone Chido, which made landfall in December 2024, leaving behind a trail of destruction and sorrow. The fourth tropical disturbance, second tropical cyclone, and second intense tropical cyclone of the 2024–25 South-West Indian Ocean cyclone season, Chido was small but mighty.

Formation and Intensification

A tropical disturbance formed southeast of Diego Garcia on December 5th. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center kept a close eye on it, tracking its progress until it intensified into Tropical Storm Chido. It quickly became a Severe Tropical Storm before reaching intense status.

Landfall and Impact

The system made landfall at Agaléga in Mauritius on December 11th, peaking the following day. It then hit Bandraboua, Mayotte, and Pemba, Mozambique consecutively. The cyclone killed at least 20 people in Mayotte, while three others were lost in Mozambique.

Preparations and Response

Residents sought refuge as the storm approached Agaléga, Mauritius. In Madagascar, food stocks were deployed, and disaster response preparations began. The Comoros issued an orange weather alert and activated their flood rescue plan. The Comorian Red Cross in Anjouan and Mohéli prepared for the worst.

Impact on Specific Areas

Agaléga was devastated by Chido, with strong gusts and a 26-foot storm surge destroying most of its homes and schools. Communications were cut off as the eye passed overnight from December 11th to 12th.

In Madagascar, minor damage, mild flooding, and power outages were reported in Antsiranana. In Mayotte, wind speeds reached 140 mph at Dzaoudzi–Pamandzi International Airport, causing severe damage. Two people were injured, five houses destroyed, mosques damaged, and 11 fishermen went missing.

In Mozambique, an estimated two million people could be affected by winds exceeding 75 mph. At least three people died in northern Mozambique, where many homes, schools, and health facilities were destroyed in Pemba. Communications were cut off, and power outages occurred in Cabo Delgado and Nampula Provinces.

Aftermath and Recovery

Chido’s impact was profound, with Comoros declaring a week of national mourning due to the cyclone’s effects on Mayotte. French authorities deployed 1,600 police officers to help residents and prevent looting.

The airport in Agaléga was severely damaged, limiting operations to military aircraft only. President Emmanuel Macron promised urgent assistance and hosted a meeting at the Interior Ministry’s crisis center in Paris to address the situation.

Conclusion

Intense Tropical Cyclone Chido serves as a stark reminder of nature’s power and the importance of preparedness. As we reflect on its impact, it is clear that such storms can devastate entire communities, leaving behind not just physical destruction but also emotional scars. The resilience shown by those affected and the swift response from authorities highlight the ongoing challenges in disaster management.