Mozambique: Lightning Strikes in Zambézia Lead to Tragedy and Destruction

Zambézia province in Mozambique has experienced 17 deaths and 46 injuries from lightning strikes since October. The INGD reported extensive flooding, with over 800 homes destroyed and significant impacts on schools and agriculture. The INGD has provided aid and positioned vessels for ongoing support, while the government seeks improved communication and partnerships for disaster response.

Mozambique’s Zambézia province has reported at least seventeen fatalities and 46 injuries attributed to lightning strikes since October of the previous year. The National Institute for Natural Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD) shared this information during the 1st Ordinary Session of the State Representation Council in Quelimane, communicated by provincial delegate Hélder da Costa. Heavy rains and subsequent flooding have affected 120 families within the same timeframe.

The current rainy season has resulted in significant rainfall, measuring up to 30 millimeters within 24 hours across several districts, including Morrumbala and Quelimane. This severe weather has obliterated over 800 homes and left approximately 1,300 others partially damaged, additionally impacting nine health units and 46 schools. Consequently, around 22,000 students and 390 teachers have faced disruptions in their education.

Infrastructure damage has also been notable, with 63.94 kilometers of roads rendered impassable, 44 electricity transmission poles downed, and 36 hectares of farmland inundated. In response, the INGD has supplied essential goods, including food and non-food items, to vulnerable districts such as Luabo and Maganja da Costa, aiding 120 affected families.

Furthermore, the INGD has strategically positioned nine vessels to assist affected areas, with one boat allocated per district and two for Quelimane. These resources will complement additional support from partner organizations. Secretary of State for Zambézia, Avelino Muchine, emphasized the importance of improving communication and fostering partnerships with media to mitigate disaster impacts.

The situation underscores the government’s urgency in mobilizing resources and pursuing both national and international partnerships to address and replace the damaged infrastructure swiftly. In light of the adverse weather effects, strengthening collaborative efforts will be critical for efficient recovery operations.

In summary, Zambézia province faces significant challenges due to extreme weather conditions, including fatalities from lightning strikes, extensive property damage, and disruptions in education infrastructure. The response efforts by the INGD have focused on providing essential assistance to affected families while inadequate communication and partnerships remain a concern. The provincial government must continue to pursue collaborative resources for effective disaster management and recovery.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com