Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe is bracing for Cyclone Chido, which is expected to make landfall in the country next Monday, a senior government official has said.
Cyclone Chido is classified as a tropical cyclone, fueled by heat energy from warm ocean waters. Historically, cyclones that impact Zimbabwe have approached from the east, a pattern Chido is following.
Originating from Madagascar, this powerful cyclone is projected to affect eight provinces across Zimbabwe and elsewhere in the southern Africa region, according to the chief director of the Department of Civil Protection, Nathan Nkomo who chairs the National Civil Protection Committee (NCPC).
Taking a proactive approach to the impending weather vagary, the NCPC has issued urgent warnings to local authorities and budget planners to be ready for the potential dangers posed by the storm on infrastructure and communities, particularly in rural areas.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and preparing for everything that Chido might visit us with.
We hope she comes calm and collected unlike the previous cyclones experienced. It is critical that communities are aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions, ” said Nkomo.
The NCPC predicted that the cyclone will bring intense thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, particularly during the first two days.
Initial forecasts estimate rainfall amounts between 60 to 70 millimeters, which could lead to flooding in vulnerable areas.
The provinces most at risk include Manicaland, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland West and the Harare Metropolitan.
The storm is expected to move at a speed of around 20km/h upon entering Zimbabwe, much slower than initial forecasts of wind speeds of between 210 and 220 km/h.
This slower movement may increase the duration of rainfall in affected areas, heightening the risk of flooding and landslides.
In preparation for Cyclone Chido, religious organizations and traditional leaders are reported to be organizing prayer meetings and community gatherings to foster a spirit of resilience and collective action.
Authorities, however, emphasize the importance of public awareness and encourage residents to prepare for the coming cyclone, with the NCPC urging people to stay tuned to official weather updates and follow the guidance of local officials.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of all citizens. We urge everyone to remain vigilant and to take this warning seriously,” said Nkomo.
The next few days will be crucial for communities across Zimbabwe as they await the arrival of Cyclone Chido, with the hope that measures taken will help minimize the impact of the impending natural disaster.
New Ziana