The Zimbabwe Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued an update regarding Tropical Cyclone Chido, confirming that it is expected to make its way into Zimbabwe on today , Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
This follows the cyclone’s landfall in Mozambique over the weekend, where it encountered significant terrain that contributed to a decrease in its overall strength.
According to Tapiwa Masawi, an official from the MSD, Chido was more ferocious while over the ocean but weakened considerably upon interacting with land. This reduction in intensity has provided some relief, suggesting that the cyclone’s impact on Zimbabwe will be less severe than initially feared.
As of Monday morning, Cyclone Chido had moved into the southern parts of Malawi and is anticipated to enter Zimbabwe via the Nyamapanda border post. The MSD has pinpointed areas that are likely to be affected by the storm, including Murehwa, various regions of Mashonaland Central such as Bindura, Shamva, Mazowe, and parts of the Harare Metropolitan Province.
Given the cyclone’s trajectory, residents in these areas are advised to stay vigilant and prepared for the potential of heavy rainfall and strong winds that could accompany the storm’s passage. Masawi emphasized the importance of readiness in the face of changing weather conditions.
While the situation in Zimbabwe appears to be more manageable compared to the catastrophic effects experienced in Mayotte, where Cyclone Chido caused unprecedented devastation, the MSD continues to take the threat seriously.
The cyclone was labeled as the worst to strike the region in nearly a century, having uprooted trees and demolished homes, and leaving numerous casualties in its wake. Reports indicate that several hundred lives may have been lost in the French territory, underscoring the ferocity of the storm when it was at its peak intensity over the ocean.
The past experiences of such destructive weather events serve as a reminder to Zimbabweans to remain cautious.
Moreover, the MSD is actively monitoring the cyclone’s progression and remains in constant communication with local authorities to provide updates and guidance.
As the storm approaches, the department encourages communities in the path of the cyclone to heed safety warnings and prepare adequately. Public awareness campaigns have been initiated to ensure that citizens are informed about necessary precautions to take in the event of adverse weather conditions.
Despite the current assessment suggesting a lesser threat, the potential for unpredictable changes in the weather remains, and preparedness is key to effectively mitigating any possible impacts.
