Rescue services in southern Africa are on high alert as hurricane Shido approaches from the east, threatening the region with squalls and heavy rains, South African SABC radio station reported.
Around 2.7 million people are reportedly in immediate danger in Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, South Africa and Eswatini.
Hurricane-force winds exceeding 61 m/s at its epicenter have already reportedly killed at least 14 people on the island of Mayotte (an overseas department of France in the Indian Ocean) and damaged homes and infrastructure in the Comoros.
Hurricane Shido is forecast to hit northern Mozambique on December 15. As a result, authorities have issued warnings to residents and urged them to prepare for high waves that could reach up to 10 meters, heavy rainfall of over 200 millimeters, and the potential for flooding. Neighboring Malawi is also taking steps to prepare for the hurricane. Roads have been closed, and residents have been informed about potential evacuations.
Services in other countries in southern Africa are also preparing for the arrival of the hurricane. Coordination is also being carried out through the structures of the Southern African Development Community, the largest regional organization.