The latest death toll from Cyclone Chido, which struck northern Mozambique last week, has risen to at least 120 lives and left hundreds injured, according to the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) recent report released Monday.
A previous report from the institute had reported 94 deaths and dozens of people missing. The United Nations Satellite Centre estimates that approximately 1.3 million people have been affected, primarily in Cabo Delgado province, which an armed insurgency has plagued.
The cyclone also affected the Mecufi district in Cabo Delgado, where thousands displaced by violence had sought refuge, according to the NGO “Helpo,” almost all infrastructure in the area has been destroyed.
“We witnessed extensive damage. Many roofs have been torn off, numerous public facilities damaged, and power lines cut,” Guy Taylor, UNICEF spokesperson in Cabo Delgado, said.
He warned that the tropical storm may have contaminated water sources, raising the risk of diseases such as cholera, malaria, and diarrhea.
More than 35,000 homes have been partially or completely destroyed by winds of up to 260 km/h, devastating many communities in its path, according to the Mozambican Disaster Management Agency.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reports that at least 160,000 people may need shelter assistance.
Chido also affected the provinces of Nampula and Niassa.