Tropical Cyclone Jude has struck Malawi and Mozambique, leading to widespread damage and displacement, but no fatalities. Over 11,000 people have been affected, and relief operations are complicated by washed-out roads and access issues. Efforts are ongoing to provide aid to those in need, while the cyclone is expected to dissipate soon.
Tropical Cyclone Jude recently impacted parts of southern Africa, particularly Malawi and Mozambique, without resulting in any fatalities. However, the cyclone has caused significant disruption, leaving many homeless and sections of the region without electrical power. Relief operations have been challenging due to washed-out roads, hindering the delivery of aid to those in need.
Cyclone Jude made landfall in northern Mozambique on a Sunday morning, subsequently moving into southern Malawi. The heavy rains associated with the storm affected 13 districts from Monday to Wednesday. A preliminary assessment by Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs revealed that over 11,000 individuals were impacted, with many crops destroyed and properties submerged or damaged by flooding.
Approximately 3,000 people were displaced due to the storm, finding shelter in six evacuation camps. While there were no reported deaths, the disaster management department noted that 15 people sustained injuries from collapsing structures. Chipiliro Khamula, a spokesperson for the department, stated that medical attention was being provided to two boys involved in the incident.
Rescue efforts are currently underway for three individuals reported missing after their boat capsized in flooded areas of Nsanje and Phalombe districts. In Mozambique, the lack of access to many affected communities in Nampula province has severely hindered relief efforts, as main roads and bridges have been damaged. Furthermore, the N1 national highway is blocked, complicating the transportation of aid from Cabo Delgado province.
Despite these challenges, the government of Malawi and various aid organizations have initiated relief operations where conditions allow. The World Food Program also began distributing aid in the Muanje district, utilizing prepositioned supplies and operational equipment, including rescue boats, for swift response efforts. Simon Denhere, WFP’s acting country director, emphasized the support received from the UK government in facilitating these efforts.
Lucy Mtilatila, from Malawi’s Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, informed that Cyclone Jude has moved from Malawi into Mozambique, where it is anticipated to dissipate soon. Nevertheless, she cautioned that flooding remains a concern, although subsequent rainfall is expected to have minimal impact. Cyclone Jude has become the third cyclone to affect Mozambique within the past three months, following Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi.
In conclusion, Cyclone Jude has significantly impacted southern Africa, especially Malawi and Mozambique, by causing widespread damage and displacing thousands without any reported fatalities. Relief efforts are underway, although the accessibility challenges remain pronounced due to infrastructure damage. Aid organizations are mobilizing resources and support, with future weather conditions monitored closely to mitigate any further risks from flooding.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
