Cyclone Jude Hits Malawi and Mozambique, Causing Damage but No Casualties
Tropical Cyclone Jude hit southern Africa causing extensive damage in Malawi and Mozambique, leaving thousands homeless but no deaths reported. Relief efforts faced hindrances due to infrastructure damage, though aid agencies started operations where accessible. Over 11,000 people were affected, with ongoing concerns about flooding as Jude moves away from the region.
Tropical Cyclone Jude recently impacted southern Africa, notably Malawi and Mozambique, causing significant damage but no fatalities. Thousands of residents became homeless, and many communities were left without power as aid agencies struggled to provide assistance due to washed-away roads hindering relief efforts.
Cyclone Jude made landfall in northern Mozambique and subsequently moved over southern Malawi, resulting in heavy rains that affected 13 districts from Monday to Wednesday. A report from Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs stated that over 11,000 individuals were impacted, with significant crop losses and property damage due to flooding.
Furthermore, over 3,000 individuals were displaced and are currently housed in six evacuation camps. While no deaths were reported, the disaster management department confirmed that 15 people were injured, including two young boys, due to collapsing structures related to the cyclone. Rescuers are also searching for three individuals reported missing after a boat capsized.
The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs revealed that relief operations in Mozambique were hampered by inaccessible areas in Nampula province, with major infrastructure such as roads and bridges destroyed. Additionally, relief efforts were complicated by the extensive damage to the N1 national highway, impacting transportation from Cabo Delgado province.
Despite challenges, the government and international aid agencies began relief operations in accessible regions of Malawi. The World Food Program reported aid distribution, supported by prepositioned supplies, which included food and essential emergency equipment.
As Cyclone Jude moves towards Mozambique, it is expected to dissipate; however, floods remain a concern. Officials noted that while the cyclone’s immediate threat had diminished, caution is still advised regarding subsequent rainfall. Notably, Jude is the third cyclone to affect Mozambique within the last three months, following Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi.
Cyclone Jude has caused significant disruption in Malawi and Mozambique, leading to widespread displacement and property damage without any reported fatalities. The relief response is challenged by damaged infrastructure, yet aid efforts are underway. Authorities remain vigilant regarding potential flooding as the cyclone dissipates, underscoring the ongoing vulnerability of these regions to tropical storms.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
