Flash Update: Impact of Tropical Cyclone Jude in Mozambique

Tropical Cyclone Jude hit Mozambique on March 10, 2025, affecting over 375,000 people, damaging homes, and leading to severe flooding in Nampula and Zambezia provinces. The storm exacerbated existing vulnerabilities and health risks, particularly cholera outbreaks. Temporary accommodation facilities are addressing immediate shelter needs, while urgent humanitarian assistance is required for recovery.

Tropical Cyclone Jude struck Mozambique’s Nampula province on March 10, 2025, resulting in substantial damage and disruption. By March 13, the National Institute for Disaster Management (INGD) reported that approximately 375,214 people were affected, with 81,149 homes damaged or destroyed. Severe flooding and infrastructure damage have specifically impacted Nampula and Zambezia provinces, worsening the situation for communities already facing food insecurity and limited access to services. This cyclone season has been particularly intense, with previous cyclones Chido and Dikeledi affecting an estimated 684,000 people.

Following its landfall, Cyclone Jude weakened into a severe storm as it moved into Manica, Niassa, Sofala, and Tete provinces, compounding the challenges from consecutive cyclones. The humanitarian needs are growing as communities face the cumulative effects of these disasters. Health risks are rising, particularly concerning cholera outbreaks. The most recent cholera bulletin indicated 56 cases reported in Nampula province as of March 14, 2025. Although no new cases were identified in the last day, the risk of outbreaks remains high due to contaminated water supplies and overcrowded shelters.

Preliminary findings from an Initial Rapid Assessment (IRA) conducted by the IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), in collaboration with the CCCM Cluster and INGD, revealed over 61 temporary accommodation facilities housing displaced individuals. These sites are critical for providing shelter to evacuated households as authorities and humanitarian organizations work to address urgent needs such as food assistance, safe water, sanitation, healthcare, and protection services.

Tropical Cyclone Jude has significantly affected Mozambique, particularly in Nampula and Zambezia provinces. With over 375,000 people impacted and extensive infrastructure damage reported, the need for humanitarian assistance is urgent. Health risks, especially cholera, are concerning, highlighting the need for clean water and health services. Rapid assessments indicate the establishment of temporary shelters, but sustained support and resources are essential for recovery and resilience in the affected communities.

Original Source: reliefweb.int