Cyclone Jude Causes Damage in Malawi and Mozambique, No Fatalities Reported
Tropical Cyclone Jude has severely impacted Malawi and Mozambique, leaving widespread damage and thousands displaced. No fatalities have been reported, but injuries have occurred. Relief efforts are complicated by infrastructure damage, particularly in Mozambique. International aid is underway in accessible regions of Malawi as the storm dissipates.
Tropical Cyclone Jude recently impacted southern Africa, particularly Malawi and Mozambique, although there have been no reported deaths. The storm caused significant damage, displacing thousands and leaving many without power. Relief efforts have been complicated by washed-out roads, hindering access to affected areas.
Cyclone Jude made landfall in northern Mozambique and subsequently affected southern Malawi, resulting in heavy rain across 13 districts. Preliminary reports indicate over 11,000 individuals have been affected, with more than 3,000 needing shelters in evacuation camps due to extensive flooding and property damage.
While no fatalities occurred, the storm did cause injuries to 15 individuals from collapsing buildings, including two young boys. Efforts to locate three individuals missing after their boat capsized are ongoing.
In Mozambique, the United Nations reported severe obstacles in delivering aid, particularly due to washed-out infrastructure, including roads and bridges. Relief operations are mainly hindered in the Nampula province where access remains severely restricted.
Conversely, in Malawi, international aid agencies began distributing relief supplies in more accessible regions. The World Food Program has prepositioned essential food supplies and emergency kits to facilitate quicker response efforts.
As of now, Cyclone Jude has moved toward Mozambique, where it is predicted to dissipate. Although current flooding remains a concern, experts believe the impact of the anticipated rains will be minimal. Cyclone Jude is noted as the third such storm to affect Mozambique in a short span, following two others earlier this year.
In conclusion, while Cyclone Jude has caused significant disruption in Malawi and Mozambique, with thousands displaced and homes destroyed, the lack of fatalities stands as a positive note amid adversity. Continued efforts in emergency response and recovery remain critical as affected areas work toward rebuilding after this storm. Experts indicate that although flooding is a concern, its impact will be minimal moving forward.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
