Tropical Cyclone Jude has caused at least nine fatalities in Mozambique and Malawi, displacing thousands. Mozambique reported six deaths and significant damage, while Malawi faced three fatalities and over 20,000 homeless due to severe flooding. Relief operations are challenged by destroyed infrastructure.
Tropical Cyclone Jude has tragically claimed the lives of at least nine individuals across Mozambique and Malawi. The National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD) in Mozambique reported that six fatalities, along with 20 injuries and the displacement of 9,525 people, were noted. This devastation primarily affected the provinces of Nampula, Niasa, and Zambezia.
In Malawi, three fatalities have been reported alongside significant displacement, with approximately 20,000 individuals rendered homeless as a result of the cyclone’s impact, particularly in the southern region which experienced severe flooding. Chiphiliro Khamula, a spokesperson for the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), indicated that these displaced individuals are currently being accommodated in evacuation centers.
Cyclone Jude made landfall in northern Mozambique early on Sunday and subsequently moved to southern Malawi, resulting in substantial flooding that persisted from Monday through Wednesday. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) voiced concerns that humanitarian relief efforts were being significantly hindered due to the destruction of local roads and bridges.
This recent weather event follows the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido in December of the previous year, which resulted in the deaths of 73 people in Mozambique and 13 in Malawi.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Jude has had a devastating impact across Mozambique and Malawi, claiming nine lives and displacing thousands. The extent of destruction has complicated relief efforts, highlighting the growing challenges posed by such natural disasters in the region. Humanitarian organizations are striving to address the urgent needs of those affected, amid ongoing concerns over access to essential services.
Original Source: news.az