The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) has raised an urgent alert regarding Tropical Cyclone Chido, currently forming over the southwestern Indian Ocean. Positioned approximately 1,332 kilometers off the coast of Madagascar, the cyclone is intensifying rapidly and is expected to reach Category 3 strength within the next 24 hours.
According to the SADC Climate Services Centre, Cyclone Chido is currently generating maximum sustained winds of 110 km/h, with gusts reaching 130 km/h. The system is projected to make landfall in northern Madagascar, bringing torrential rains, strong winds, and turbulent seas. After making landfall, Chido is forecast to re-intensify and pose a significant threat to the Comoros and Mozambique.
SHOC has called for heightened preparedness in the affected regions, urging local authorities to monitor weather updates closely and to ensure that communities are well-informed. “Residents in these regions should prepare for severe weather conditions,” the SADC Climate Services Centre advised.
In Zimbabwe, the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has assured the public that Cyclone Chido poses no direct threat to the country. However, wet conditions are expected over the weekend due to storm systems originating from Botswana.
“Storms from Botswana are likely to bring wet conditions to Matabeleland provinces and beyond this weekend,” explained MSD’s head of forecasting, James Ngoma. While Cyclone Chido is not forecast to affect Zimbabwe, Ngoma emphasized the need for vigilance, as tropical cyclones can alter their trajectories unexpectedly.
The MSD has advised the public to stay informed through official updates as weather patterns develop.
To mitigate the potential impacts of Cyclone Chido, SHOC has called on member states to strengthen infrastructure, activate evacuation plans, and stock emergency supplies. The organisation also stressed the importance of regional cooperation in addressing the risks posed by natural disasters.
Madagascar, along with nearby island states, has been urged to closely monitor updates from meteorological authorities as Cyclone Chido’s path and intensity continue to evolve. SHOC emphasized the importance of early preparedness to safeguard lives and minimize damage.
As the region braces for potential impacts, authorities are working to ensure that communities in vulnerable areas remain alert and ready to respond to severe weather conditions.
