The death toll had been initially reported at 45 on Wednesday, but officials warned that the numbers were expected to rise as more remote areas become accessible for aid teams. Many of the victims were caught in the cyclone’s powerful winds and flooding, which also led to the destruction of thousands of homes and critical infrastructure.
In addition to the fatalities, authorities have confirmed that hundreds of people have been injured, with many more displaced. Cyclone Chido has left communities in Mozambique struggling to recover, as the heavy rains and strong winds caused severe flooding, especially in the central and northern regions.
The storm, classified as a category 2 cyclone, caused widespread damage to crops, which will have a significant impact on food security in the affected areas. Emergency response teams, including the Mozambique Red Cross and international aid organizations, are working tirelessly to provide immediate assistance to those affected.
Local officials have issued urgent appeals for more international aid as they continue to assess the full extent of the damage. They are also prioritizing the rescue of stranded individuals and providing shelter, food, and medical support to those in need.
The government of Mozambique has declared a state of emergency in several affected areas, urging citizens to remain vigilant as additional rain and possible aftershocks continue to threaten the region. Weather experts are monitoring the situation closely, with concerns that Cyclone Chido's impact could extend into neighboring countries in the coming days.
As recovery efforts unfold, the Mozambican government, alongside global humanitarian organizations, is calling for international support to help rebuild communities and provide long-term assistance to the survivors of this devastating natural disaster.