Cyclone Chido leaves trail of damages
The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) has reported significant damages caused by Tropical Cyclone Chido across multiple districts in Malawi.
Preliminary assessments indicate that approximately 1,800 households, affecting over 8,100 people, have been impacted, with two fatalities recorded due to collapsing walls.
Key affected districts include Machinga, Blantyre, Zomba City, Phalombe, and Mulanje, where homes, schools, and health facilities sustained severe damage.
In Machinga, 650 households were affected, while Blantyre District reported 270 affected households. Zomba City saw damages to 224 houses, primarily in Mpila, Masongola, and Likangala Wards.
Infrastructure damages were widespread. Schools in Phalombe and Mulanje suffered blown-off roofs, while in Chikwawa, the roof of a maternity block at Mfela Health Centre was destroyed. Roads leading to several health centers in Neno became impassable due to the storm.
The cyclone, now downgraded to a moderate tropical storm, continues to weaken as it moves westward at 22km/h and is expected to exit Malawi later today. Field assessments are ongoing to verify the extent of the damage.
The public is advised to stay informed as DoDMA monitors developments and works with councils to support affected communities.
The Commissioner for Disaster Management Affairs, Charles Kalemba, emphasized the collective responsibility for disaster risk reduction.
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