Tropical Cyclone Jude has impacted Malawi and Mozambique, causing significant damage but no deaths. Thousands are homeless and aid is hampered by damaged infrastructure. Over 11,000 individuals are affected, with more than 3,000 displaced. Relief efforts are underway, although flooding remains a concern. Jude is the third cyclone to affect Mozambique recently.
Tropical Cyclone Jude recently struck southern Africa, particularly impacting Malawi and Mozambique. While the cyclone caused considerable damage, it is notable that no fatalities have been reported. Thousands are now homeless and have been left without power, as officials noted significant challenges in delivering aid due to damaged infrastructure, including washed-away roads.
The cyclone initially made landfall in northern Mozambique and subsequently moved into southern Malawi, depositing heavy rains across 13 districts from Monday to Wednesday. A preliminary assessment indicated that over 11,000 individuals were affected, resulting in the destruction or flooding of crops, homes, and other property.
The assessment further revealed that over 3,000 people have been displaced, currently residing in six evacuation camps. Although there have been no fatalities, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs reported 15 injuries connected to collapsing structures, including two young boys receiving medical care.
Rescue operations continue for three individuals unaccounted for in the Nsanje and Phalombe districts following a boat incident on a flooded river. Meanwhile, the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that relief efforts in Mozambique are significantly hindered by limited access to affected regions, particularly in Nampula province where essential infrastructure was severely damaged.
In response, international aid agencies, alongside the Malawian government, commenced relief operations in accessible regions. The World Food Program began distributing essential supplies in Mulanje district, supported by the UK government to enhance emergency response capacity. Local authorities indicated the cyclone has since moved towards Mozambique, lessening the immediate threat in Malawi, though flooding remains a concern due to ongoing rains.
Cyclone Jude is the third cyclonic event to impact Mozambique in recent months, following Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, with Malawi having faced challenges from Cyclone Chido, although it was spared from Dikeledi’s impact.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Jude has caused significant disruption and damage in Malawi and Mozambique without resulting in any fatalities. The cyclone has displaced thousands and restricted humanitarian aid due to infrastructure damages. However, agencies are actively responding to support those affected. The storm’s movement toward Mozambique indicates a reduction in threat levels for Malawi, though flooding risks persist. Its occurrence marks the third notable cyclone event in the region within recent months.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
