14 Dec 2024 | 12:18 AM UTC
Mozambique Channel: Tropical Cyclone Chido tracking west-southwestward toward Mayotte early Dec. 14 /update 6
TC Chido tracking west-southwestward across Mozambique Channel early Dec. 14. Landfall over Mayotte early Dec. 14.
Tropical Cyclone Chido is tracking west-southwestward across the Mozambique Channel away from northern Madagascar early Dec. 14. As of 01:00 MUT, the system was around 1,072 km (666 miles) east-southeast of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen back into an intense tropical cyclone and make landfall over far northern Mayotte early Dec. 14. The storm will maintain its strength before making landfall over far southeastern Cabo Delgado Province in Mozambique during the morning Dec. 15. After landfall, Chido is forecast to weaken rapidly into a zone of disturbed weather and then dissipate as it tracks westward inland over Niassa Province late Dec. 15. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; changes could occur in the coming hours and days.
Meteo Madagascar maintains blue post-hazard vigilance warnings across the Diana Region, Andapa, Sambava, and Vohemar districts in the Sava Region, and Bealanana, Antsohihy, and Analalava districts in the Sofia Region. Red strong wind warnings are in effect from Bobaomby to Vohemar and between Bobaomby and Nosy Be, and heavy swell warnings are in effect between Angotsy and Bobaomby and Bobaomby and Mahajanga. Yellow strong wind and heavy swell warnings are in place for northwestern coastal areas.
Meteo France Mayotte has issued a red cyclone warning (the highest level on a four-tier scale) across Mayotte. The Mozambique National Institute of Meteorology (INAM) has issued a public advisory warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds over parts of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, and Niassa provinces over the coming days associated with Chido.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible. The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose a serious health threat.
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast adverse weather conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surges. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
