Cyclone Judy Threatens Mozambique: Evacuations and Emergency Preparations Underway

Tropical Cyclone Judy is threatening Nampula and Zambézia provinces, potentially impacting 341,000 people with heavy rainfall and winds. Authorities are mobilizing resources and evacuating high-risk areas while preparing for potential flooding and transport disruptions.

The provinces of Nampula and Zambézia are facing significant risks due to Tropical Cyclone Judy, expected to deliver over 200 millimeters of rain within 24 hours and winds gusting up to 150 kilometers per hour. Approximately 341,000 people are potentially impacted by this severe weather event, which could last until the end of Wednesday. Potential consequences include flooding that may disrupt health facilities, schools, agricultural lands, and electrical substations.

Authorities have announced the mobilization of teams to evacuate residents from high-risk areas to ensure their safety. Anacleta Botão from the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD) indicated that 23 districts within Nampula are likely to be affected. Emergency operational committees have been activated to coordinate support and resources for affected communities, targeting assistance for approximately 65,000 individuals.

Agostinho Vilanculos, head of Water Resources Management, noted that nearly all river basins along the coast are at elevated levels, predicting adverse impacts on traffic and an increased risk of flooding in areas like Quelimane. He cautioned that additional rainfall would exacerbate road conditions, especially in coastal districts prone to flooding and erosion.

The INGD has urged drivers to refrain from travel in affected regions and requested the National Road Administration to evaluate the integrity of bridges spanning at-risk rivers. Meanwhile, the influence of Cyclone Judy may extend to nearby provinces, including Cabo Delgado, Niassa, Tete, and Sofala, contributing to increased rainfall in coastal areas.

Tropical Cyclone Judy poses a severe threat to the provinces of Nampula and Zambézia, putting 341,000 individuals at risk due to expected heavy rainfall and strong winds. Authorities are actively mobilizing resources and emergency teams to assist affected communities. The situation demands careful monitoring of transportation routes and infrastructure integrity, with precautions being advised to ensure public safety against flooding and other cyclonic impacts.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com