UN Humanitarian Response to Cyclone Chido in Mozambique and Earthquake in Vanuatu
The UN is mobilizing aid in response to Tropical Cyclone Chido’s impact on Mozambique, which has affected over 184,000 people, resulted in 45 deaths, and damaged thousands of homes, health centers, and schools. Additionally, a deadly earthquake in Vanuatu has killed nine individuals and injured over 200, prompting international support requests. Immediate needs include medical supplies and safe drinking water.
The United Nations continues to provide assistance to communities impacted by Tropical Cyclone Chido, which recently struck Mozambique, causing widespread destruction. The cyclone has reportedly affected 184,000 individuals, with 45 fatalities and 500 injuries noted so far, predominantly in the Cabo Delgado province. An estimated 35,000 homes were either severely damaged or completely destroyed, along with significant impacts on health and educational facilities, including nearly 50 health centers and approximately 150 schools that are no longer operational.
In the Mecufi district of Cabo Delgado, the UN and its partners are actively working to assist families most affected by the cyclone. Thus far, they have reached 2,000 families to provide food, shelter, and critical supplies. Mobile medical teams are deployed to deliver health services in the hardest-hit areas and efforts are underway to mitigate waterborne diseases by distributing chlorine along with water purification materials and cholera preventive information. Furthermore, assistance is being directed toward unaccompanied children and those separated from their families following the disaster.
Prior to its impact on Mozambique, Tropical Cyclone Chido caused catastrophic damage in the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte on December 14, leading to an unprecedented storm event. With wind speeds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour, it was the most powerful cyclone to affect Mayotte in nearly ninety years. President Emmanuel Macron of France announced a national period of mourning in light of the calamity, with fears of numerous fatalities reported.
In addition to the calamity in Mozambique, the UN is responding to a recent earthquake in Vanuatu that has resulted in the deaths of nine individuals and injured over 200. Authorities have proclaimed a seven-day state of emergency due to the concerning situation. The Vanuatu Government has reached out for international aid to bolster national relief efforts, leading the UN and its partners to mobilize necessary resources. An UNDAC team, along with other emergency response units, is being deployed to assess the situation and deliver immediate assistance, which includes medical supplies, repairs to damaged medical facilities, and safe drinking water.
The recent occurrences of Tropical Cyclone Chido and an earthquake in Vanuatu highlight the ongoing challenges posed by natural disasters in vulnerable regions. Cyclone Chido impacted Mozambique after causing devastation in Mayotte, making this an urgent humanitarian crisis. In Mozambique, significant damage has occurred, particularly in Cabo Delgado province, with destruction affecting homes, health facilities, and schools. Concurrently, Vanuatu is grappling with the aftermath of a deadly earthquake, necessitating immediate international assistance to address extensive damage and humanitarian needs. These situations underscore the importance of coordinated disaster response and aid efforts from the United Nations and associated organizations.
In summary, the UN is actively responding to the humanitarian crises unleashed by Tropical Cyclone Chido in Mozambique and the earthquake in Vanuatu. The impact of these disasters has been severe, with significant loss of life, injuries, and widespread destruction of infrastructure. The UN’s efforts, including providing essential aid, medical assistance, and preventive health measures, aim to alleviate the suffering of those affected and support ongoing recovery initiatives. The concerted international response is crucial in addressing these challenging situations effectively.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
