Tropical Cyclone Jude: Flash Update No. 2 on Humanitarian Impact in Southern Africa
Tropical Cyclone Jude struck Southern Africa from 6 to 16 March 2025, affecting nearly 340,000 individuals. Major destruction was reported in Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique, with significant damage to infrastructure and concerns over cholera outbreaks. Humanitarian responses are underway to provide relief and support recovery efforts.
Tropical Cyclone Jude has significantly impacted Southern Africa, affecting nearly 340,000 individuals and displacing thousands in Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique from 6 to 16 March 2025. Infrastructure, crops, and essential services have faced extensive disruption, prompting a humanitarian response involving government-led efforts for search and rescue, emergency operations, and resource mobilization.
The situation in Madagascar has been particularly dire, with approximately 15,000 people affected by the storm’s second landfall on 15 March. As a result, one fatality occurred, and over 10,500 individuals were displaced across 24 temporary sites. The storm caused substantial damage, affecting over 1,160 homes and leading to the destruction of educational facilities for nearly 48,000 students. Accessibility issues have emerged due to damaged infrastructure, hindering the delivery of assistance.
Malawi reported nearly 20,650 affected individuals, with three individuals missing and over 4,800 displaced. The storm predominantly impacted southern councils, with Phalombe District witnessing the highest number of affected residents. Heavy rainfall compounded the situation, resulting in urgent relief needs.
In Mozambique, Tropical Storm Jude made landfall on 10 March, leading to 302,000 affected individuals and 16 recorded fatalities. Damage included the destruction of houses, health facilities, schools, and other critical infrastructure. The aftermath of the storm exacerbates the ongoing cholera outbreak, which was already declared by the Ministry of Health prior to the storm.
Humanitarian partners are actively supporting government-led responses across the affected countries. In Madagascar, plans are being made to utilize resources from previous storms, while relief efforts include food, water, and health services. Malawi has initiated community awareness campaigns, and relief distributions are underway. Mozambique is facing considerable strain on its humanitarian response capacities due to concurrent crises and challenges.
Tropical Cyclone Jude has caused extensive humanitarian needs across Southern Africa, impacting nearly 340,000 people and increasing risks of disease outbreaks. The responses from governments and humanitarian partners are crucial in overcoming the immediate aftereffects of the cyclone, as well as addressing the underlying vulnerabilities exacerbated by previous weather events. Coordinated efforts are necessary to stabilize the affected regions and facilitate recovery.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
