By Burnett Munthali
Lilongwe, Malawi – The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) in Malawi is implementing proactive strategies to mitigate the potential impacts of Cyclone Chido, following recent alerts from the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS).
Cyclone Chido, whose remnants are predicted to traverse the Mozambique Channel, pose a significant threat to the southern regions of Malawi. Meteorological experts have modeled the cyclone’s trajectory, forecasting its entry into the Mozambique Channel with an expected landfall near Nacala on Sunday afternoon.
In response to these predictions, Commissioner Charles Kalemba issued a statement outlining the comprehensive precautionary measures set in motion by DoDMA. “Our primary objective is to safeguard lives and property by ensuring that all necessary resources and teams are ready to respond swiftly,” Kalemba stated.
Key among the preparedness initiatives is the establishment of standby arrangements for the deployment of a robust search and rescue team. This team will comprise members from the Malawi Defense Force (MDF), Malawi Police Service (MPS), the Marine Department, and the Malawi Red Cross Society. These organizations have been mobilized to coordinate efforts in evacuation, relief distribution, and emergency response operations should Cyclone Chido intensify upon reaching Malawian shores.
Additionally, DoDMA is collaborating with local communities to disseminate vital information regarding cyclone preparedness. Public advisories include guidance on securing homes, safeguarding livestock, and establishing emergency shelters. The department is also coordinating with regional authorities to ensure that infrastructure such as roads and communication networks remain operational to facilitate efficient disaster response.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and remain committed to updating the public as more information becomes available,” Kalemba emphasized. “It is imperative that residents in the affected areas stay informed and adhere to the safety protocols to minimize the cyclone’s adverse effects.”
The Malawian government’s proactive stance underscores its dedication to disaster risk reduction and resilience building. By leveraging inter-agency collaboration and community engagement, DoDMA aims to enhance the nation’s capacity to withstand and recover from natural disasters like Cyclone Chido.
As the anticipated arrival of Cyclone Chido draws nearer, all eyes remain on the coordinated efforts of Malawi’s disaster management authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens. The collective preparedness measures serve as a testament to Malawi’s commitment to tackling the challenges posed by increasingly frequent and severe weather events.
