Impact Assessment of Tropical Cyclone Jude in Mozambique – Update No. 4
Tropical Cyclone Jude has caused severe damage in Mozambique, affecting over 100,000 people and damaging 20,241 houses. There have been 8 fatalities and 71 injuries reported, as well as rising cholera cases. Humanitarian access is hindered by illegal checkpoints and damaged infrastructures, impacting food security and essential services.
Tropical Cyclone Jude has intensified into a moderate tropical storm and is now moving over the Mozambique Channel towards Madagascar’s southern coast. As reported on 14 March, the cyclone has affected over 100,000 people in Mozambique, resulting in 20,241 houses either damaged or destroyed. The situation continues to develop as humanitarian assessments reveal the extent of the damage and the need for urgent assistance.
The cyclone has caused 71 injuries and resulted in 8 fatalities, predominantly due to building collapses and drowning incidents. Reports indicate that 69 health facilities across Nampula province have sustained damage, impacting healthcare delivery amidst rising cases of cholera, with 56 new cases reported on 14 March.
Flooded cropland has affected approximately 155,410 people, significantly impacting food security. During humanitarian missions, teams faced illegal checkpoints that obstructed aid efforts and demanded payments for safe travel. Reports highlight a significant load shed on transport routes, increasing the urgency for emergency intervention.
Electricity supply has been disrupted for approximately 272,757 individuals due to damaged infrastructure, with partial restoration noted in some areas. The local electricity authority estimated damages at around $1.6 million, further complicating the recovery effort. Roads have suffered extensive damage; long queues at fuel stations in Pemba indicate a looming fuel crisis due to disrupted logistics from Nacala port.
Particular districts such as Angoche and Mecuburi have experienced severe infrastructure damage, with disrupted education and healthcare services reported. Angoche has seen around 1,730 people affected, with significant disruptions to daily life, while Ilha de Moçambique district shelters affected families, exacerbating the need for potable water as flooding impacts local water sources.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Jude has wrought considerable devastation across Mozambique, impacting over 100,000 citizens and damaging infrastructure essential for health, education, and electricity supply. The cumulative effects of the cyclone, including flooding and disease outbreaks, necessitate prompt humanitarian assistance and restoration efforts. The situation is evolving, and continuous monitoring is essential to mitigate further impacts while facilitating recovery and aid delivery.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
