Indian Ocean Nations brace for Cyclone Chido’s impact

The islands of Comoros, Madagascar, and Mayotte are on high alert as Cyclone Chido barrels toward Africa’s east coast, threatening to bring destructive winds, heavy rains, and potential flooding.

Preparedness in Comoros, Madagascar, and Mayotte

In Comoros, schools were ordered to close as authorities anticipated Chido’s arrival early Saturday. The cyclone is expected to pass the northern tip of Madagascar before heading toward the French territory of Mayotte. France’s National Weather Service has issued a red alert for Mayotte, its highest warning level, starting Friday night.

In Madagascar, northern areas like the Diana region are on high alert, with nearly 20,000 residents potentially affected. Alerts were broadcast via cellphones and radio, urging precautionary measures and evacuations. Authorities have been delivering emergency supplies, including food, water pumps, generators, and chainsaws, since Tuesday.

France has deployed around 110 emergency personnel to Mayotte, including search-and-rescue teams and specialists equipped with three tons of emergency equipment.

Mozambique and Zimbabwe on High Alert

On the African mainland, Mozambique has also declared a red alert for its northern provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula, where the cyclone is expected to make landfall early Sunday. With winds predicted to reach 200 kph (124 mph), officials estimate that over 2.5 million people may be impacted.

“We are preparing to rescue and assist those affected,” said Ana Cristina, director of Mozambique’s National Emergency Operations Center.

Even landlocked Zimbabwe is bracing for Chido’s effects, as officials anticipate heavy rains and potential flooding.

The Indian Ocean region, currently in its cyclone season from December to March, has seen an increase in severe storms in recent years. Cyclones Idai (2019) and Freddy (2022) left over 2,000 fatalities across Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and other nations.

Studies attribute the intensification of these storms to climate change, with warmer ocean temperatures fueling stronger cyclones. Experts warn that Cyclone Chido may trigger flooding, landslides, and stagnant water pools, heightening the risk of cholera, dengue fever, and malaria outbreaks.

Risk management firm Crisis24 has highlighted the potential for widespread damage, urging coordinated efforts to mitigate the cyclone’s impact. Emergency teams and supplies are being mobilized across the affected regions to respond swiftly to the unfolding crisis.

As Chido moves closer to the mainland, authorities in the Indian Ocean nations and beyond are racing to protect millions from its devastating effects.