Impact of Tropical Cyclone Jude on Mozambique: Shelter and NFI Cluster Updates
Tropical Cyclone Jude has significantly impacted Mozambique, bringing extreme weather conditions and triggering floods across several provinces. While initial government estimates suggest fewer than 5,000 affected, humanitarian forecasts predict 120,000 to 275,000 people may be impacted. The Shelter Cluster is coordinating responses and assessing needs, including the deployment of resources to Quelimane.
On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure system in the southwestern Indian Ocean developed into Tropical Cyclone Jude, making landfall on March 10 near Mossuril in Nampula province. The cyclone produced winds gusts reaching 195 km/h and rainfall surpassing 250 mm within 24 hours. Subsequently, it weakened to a tropical storm and affected the northeastern Zambezia province, particularly the Gilé and Pebane districts, while ongoing heavy rains are predicted until March 13 as it heads back to the Mozambique Channel. Flood alerts have been issued for the provinces of Nampula, Zambezia, Tete, Manica, and Sofala.
Although the government has released some initial impact data, significant gaps remain, complicating realistic assessments of the affected population and damage extent. Preliminary estimates indicate fewer than 5,000 individuals impacted, but projections suggest that the number could range between 120,000 to 275,000 individuals affected by Tropical Storm Jude.
The Shelter Cluster has undertaken various initiatives, mapping its resources in the affected provinces by assessing the presence of partners, their deployment capabilities, and stock delivery capacity. Close coordination is being conducted with local authorities for effective information exchange. Partners available in the provinces are prepared to carry out needs assessments pending improved conditions. Additionally, coordination efforts will facilitate deployment to Quelimane to assist in various operations. An estimated number of individuals in need, the target population, response activities, and associated financial requirements have been forwarded to OCHA for the Flash Appeal update.
Overall, Tropical Cyclone Jude has initiated substantial weather-related hazards affecting Mozambique’s northern and central regions, with projected impacts on a large population. Despite initial assessments indicating limited numbers affected, it is crucial to gather comprehensive data to accurately represent the situation and coordinate an effective response through the Shelter Cluster and local partnerships.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
