Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) has disclosed that so far 7,721 households (approximately 34,741 people) have been affected, with a death toil rising from two (as reported in its previous update dated 16th December 2024) to seven; with Salima registering three deaths whereas Kasungu, Machinga, Blantyre and Lilongwe Districts have each recorded one death and 16 injuries in total.
In a statement signed by Charles Kalemba, Commissioner for Disaster Management Affairs, DoDMA has highlighted that the development follows fresh preliminary reports the department has received from councils on the damages caused by the moderate Tropical Storm Chido from 15th to 16th December ,2024.
According to DoDMA, Balaka, Blantyre District, Blantyre City, Chikwawa, Chiradzulu, Kasungu, Lilongwe City, Lilongwe District, Machinga, Mangochi, Mchinji, Mulanje, Mwanza, Neno, Ntcheu, Phalombe, Salima, Thyolo, Zomba City and Zomba District are among other councils that have experienced mild to severe damages.
“Meanwhile, the department, in collaboration with various humanitarian partners and councils, is facilitating the provision of relief assistance to affected households,” the statement noted.
Additionally, following the declaration by the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services that Moderate Tropical Storm Chido exited the country and posed no further threat, DoDMA has with immediate effect decommissioned all search and rescue (SAR) operations; having earlier deployed SAR teams in areas at risk.
Furthermore, DoDMA has also expressed appreciation to various humanitarian partners, non-governmental organisations, councils, government departments, ministries and agencies; the media and the general public for their vigilance and support towards preparatory and anticipatory actions when the cyclone loomed.
Through the statement, the department has further expressed its commitment to keep the general public well informed on any developments regarding the effects of Chido and any related developments.
