Tropical Cyclone Jude Causes Damage in Malawi and Mozambique Without Fatalities
Tropical Cyclone Jude has wreaked havoc in Malawi and Mozambique, displacing over 11,000 individuals and causing widespread damage, though no deaths have been reported. Many areas are still without power, complicating relief efforts. Aid agencies are working to provide assistance amidst infrastructure challenges, while officials express optimism about the cyclone’s dissipating threat.
This week, Tropical Cyclone Jude impacted southern Africa, particularly Malawi and Mozambique, resulting in significant damage but no fatal casualties reported. Authorities indicated that thousands of residents became homeless, while some regions experienced power outages. The distribution of aid faced challenges due to washed-away roads hampering relief efforts.
The cyclone made landfall in northern Mozambique and moved over southern Malawi, unleashing heavy rains that affected 13 districts from Monday to Wednesday. A preliminary assessment from Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs revealed that over 11,000 individuals were impacted, with many losing crops and residences to flooding. The assessment highlighted that more than 3,000 people have been displaced and are currently in six evacuation camps.
Although there have been no reported fatalities, the Department of Disaster Management noted that collapsing structures resulted in injuries to 15 individuals, including two young boys. Chipiliro Khamula, the department spokesperson, provided details regarding their medical care at local hospitals. Search and rescue efforts continue for three individuals reported missing after a boating accident on a flooded river.
The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs stated that relief operations in Mozambique faced severe obstacles due to lack of access in Nampula province, where vital infrastructure has been washed away. The storm also hindered the movement of aid from Cabo Delgado province to Nampula by cutting off the main national highway.
In Malawi, international aid organizations have initiated relief operations in areas that remain accessible. The World Food Program is distributing essential supplies to affected regions, with support from the UK government. Simon Denhere, WFP’s acting country director, noted food supplies and emergency equipment have been prepositioned for a rapid response.
Lucy Mtilatila of Malawi’s Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services indicated that Cyclone Jude’s threat is dissipating, although ongoing rainfall still poses flooding risks. Jude marks the third cyclone to hit Mozambique in the past three months, following Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, which also affected Malawi.
Cyclone Jude caused extensive damage in Malawi and Mozambique, displacing thousands and injuring some individuals, but thankfully resulted in no fatalities. Relief efforts are underway despite logistical challenges due to infrastructure damage. The cyclone’s impact, while significant, is expected to diminish as conditions improve. Continued monitoring and support from international agencies remain crucial in aiding affected populations.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
