Authorities in Zimbabwe have issued warnings of potential weather-related disasters as Cyclone Chido continues its trajectory through the region.
The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) and the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) are closely monitoring the situation, urging preparedness in light of potential impacts on the country.
Cyclone Chido’s Path and Expected Impact
MSD Deputy Director James Ngoma reported that Cyclone Chido is currently over the northern parts of Madagascar. The cyclone is projected to affect Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, and potentially parts of Zimbabwe, depending on its trajectory and strength.
“We are expecting a decline in speeds as the cyclone progresses and will continue to provide updates on its direction and intensity,” said the MSD official. He added that the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and storm systems entering Zimbabwe from Botswana are expected to bring violent thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across the country into the weekend.
The MSD also anticipates increased rainfall around Christmas, attributed to cloud bands from Botswana and the ITCZ’s activity over Zimbabwe.
Civil Protection Unit Mobilizes Resources
Speaking on preparedness, CPU Director Nathan Nkomo stated that Cyclone Chido is part of a broader multi-hazard governance plan, which also addresses other potential disasters.
“About eight provinces could be affected, particularly in the northern, eastern, and central regions,” Nkomo said. He expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to manage the cyclone’s impact despite limited resources, emphasizing a collaborative approach to disaster response.
Urgent Call for Preparedness
The MSD and CPU have called on citizens to remain vigilant and follow weather updates closely. The CPU has urged communities, particularly in high-risk areas, to take precautions and prepare for potential flooding, strong winds, and thunderstorms.
Zimbabwe’s eastern provinces, which are still recovering from the devastation caused by Cyclone Idai in 2019, remain especially vulnerable to such weather events.
