The death toll from Cyclone Chido in Mozambique has reached 73, with 66 fatalities reported in the northern Cabo Delgado province, four in Nampula, and three in Niassa. One person remains missing.
More than 540 people were injured as the cyclone unleashed winds of up to 260 km/h (161 mph) and heavy rainfall of 250 millimeters (10 inches) in 24 hours, according to the disaster center.
Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique last Sunday, after battering the Indian Ocean island of Mayotte. It destroyed more than 39,100 homes and partially damaged over 13,400 others, affecting more than 329,500 people in Mozambique.
Guy Taylor, UNICEF’s spokesperson in Mozambique, described the situation as “devastation,” noting that many of the affected areas were already home to vulnerable populations. “Many families, including children, have lost everything. Entire villages were reduced to rubble. People urgently need shelter,” Taylor told Al Jazeera.
After crossing Mozambique, Cyclone Chido entered Malawi, killing 13 people and injuring dozens, according to the country’s disaster management agency.
In Mayotte, a French overseas territory, at least 31 people were confirmed dead, and over 1,500 were injured, with more than 200 critically wounded. Winds exceeding 220 km/h (136 mph) caused severe damage, tearing roofs and walls off homes and collapsing buildings.
Cyclone Chido has exposed the vulnerability of northern Mozambique and Mayotte, highlighting the urgent need for international aid, including shelter, food, and supplies, as recovery begins.