Chronicle Editor
Tarisiro Tafirenyika [email protected]
THE Southern African Development Community Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) has issued an urgent alert over Tropical Cyclone Chido, which has formed over the southwestern Indian Ocean.
Currently located 1 332 kilometres off the coast of Madagascar, the cyclone is intensifying and could develop into a Category 3 system within the next 24 hours.
According to the SADC Climate Services Centre, Chido has maximum sustained winds of 110 km/h and gusts reaching 130 km/h. The cyclone is expected to make landfall in northern Madagascar, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and turbulent seas. It is then forecast to re-intensify, threatening the Comoros and Mozambique.
SHOC has called for heightened preparedness in affected areas, urging authorities to monitor updates and ensure communities are informed. “Residents in these regions should prepare for severe weather conditions,” said the SADC Climate Services Centre.
In Zimbabwe, the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has clarified that Cyclone Chido poses no direct threat to the country. However, rains are expected this weekend due to weather systems originating from Botswana.
Zimbabwe’s Weather Forecast
“Storms from Botswana are likely to bring wet conditions to Matabeleland provinces and beyond this weekend,” explained MSD head of forecasting, Mr James Ngoma. He added that while Zimbabwe will remain unaffected by Chido, its trajectory could still change, warranting vigilance.
The MSD has advised residents to stay updated through official channels as the weekend approaches.
To mitigate the cyclone’s potential impact, SHOC has urged member states to implement preparedness measures, including strengthening infrastructure, activating evacuation plans, and stocking emergency supplies. The organisation highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in addressing natural disasters.
Madagascar and nearby island states have been advised to monitor their meteorological centres closely, as Tropical Cyclone Chido’s path and intensity continue to evolve.
Online Reporter