Tropical Cyclone Jude Hits Malawi and Mozambique with Extensive Damage

Cyclone Jude has hit Malawi and Mozambique, causing significant damage but no reported deaths. Over 11,000 people have been affected, with 3,000 displaced. Rescue operations are ongoing, while relief efforts are hampered by washed-out roads and infrastructure damage.

Tropical Cyclone Jude has struck southern Africa, particularly impacting Malawi and Mozambique. While the storm caused widespread damage, officials report no fatalities. However, thousands are homeless and many areas face power outages, complicating relief efforts due to washed-out roads.

The cyclone made landfall in northern Mozambique on Sunday and moved onto southern Malawi, causing heavy rains in 13 districts from Monday to Wednesday. A preliminary assessment from Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs indicates over 11,000 people were affected, with significant crop loss and property damage resulting from floods.

More than 3,000 individuals were displaced and are currently housed in six evacuation camps. Reports state that although there were no deaths, 15 individuals, including two young boys, were injured due to collapsing structures. Spokesperson Chipiliro Khamula reported that the injured boys are receiving medical attention in local hospitals.

Rescue operations continue for three individuals who went missing in Nsanje and Phalombe after their boat capsized. The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs highlighted that relief efforts in Mozambique are hindered by access issues, particularly in Nampula province.

In Malawi, international aid agencies, alongside the government, have begun relief operations in accessible regions. The World Food Program distributed relief items in Mulanje district, aided by UK government support. Acting country director Simon Denhere noted provisions for response operations are in place, including emergency kits and search boats.

Lucy Mtilatila of Malawi’s Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services announced that Cyclone Jude has moved towards Mozambique and is expected to dissipate soon. She reassured that the immediate threat is diminishing, though flood risk remains a concern. Notably, Jude marks the third cyclone to impact Mozambique recently, preceded by Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi.

Cyclone Jude’s impact on Malawi and Mozambique underscores the challenges faced by many during natural disasters, including significant damage to infrastructure and displacement of residents. Fortunately, rapid response efforts are underway, mitigating potential fatalities, although concerns about continued flooding persist. Addressing infrastructure damage and ensuring access for aid remain priority areas following this cyclone’s passage.

Original Source: www.voanews.com