Cyclone Jude Strikes Mozambique, Leaving Thousands at Risk and Impacting Travel
Tropical cyclone Jude made landfall near Nacala, Mozambique, bringing winds of 65 knots and heavy rain. Over 341,000 people are deemed at high risk, schools are closed, and thousands are without power. Domestic flights in the north are canceled due to the storm.
Tropical cyclone Jude impacted Mozambique’s northern coast on Sunday night, striking near the port city of Nacala. As of Monday morning, the cyclone had moved approximately 100 kilometers inland, with maximum wind speeds of 65 knots (120 kilometers per hour). The storm is projected to proceed westward and is expected to enter Malawi by Tuesday, although its winds will diminish to below 35 knots by then.
The coastal districts of Nampula, including Nacala, Mossuril, Memba, Mozambique Island, and Monapo, are forecasted to experience heavy rainfall, estimated at 100 to 200 millimeters within a 24-hour period. Rainfall has already commenced across Nampula province since Saturday evening.
The National Disaster Management Institute (INGD) of Mozambique has identified over 341,000 individuals in the province as being at high risk from the cyclone’s effects. In response, all schools in the province have been instructed to close for Monday.
The cyclone has caused damage to electricity infrastructure, resulting in approximately 40,000 customers of the public electricity company, EDM, losing power. Furthermore, Mozambique Airlines (LAM) has canceled all domestic flights to the northern regions, affecting travel to Nampula, Nacala, and Pemba. LAM has committed to rebooking impacted passengers once conditions allow for safe flights to resume.
Cyclone Jude has significantly affected Mozambique’s northern coastal region, with high wind speeds and anticipated torrential rain. The National Disaster Management Institute has flagged over 341,000 individuals at risk, leading to immediate school closures. The cyclone’s destruction of electricity lines has left thousands without power, while cancellations by Mozambique Airlines have impacted regional travel. Recovery efforts will need to prioritize the restoration of services and support for affected populations.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
