Tropical Cyclone Jude Strikes Southern Africa: Damage and Relief Efforts

Tropical Cyclone Jude caused extensive damage in southern Africa, particularly affecting Malawi and Mozambique, resulting in many homeless but no reported deaths. Aid efforts are complicated by infrastructure damage, and while 11,000 have been impacted, about 3,000 are seeking shelter in evacuation camps. Relief operations are progressing where possible, with significant contributions from international organizations. Flooding remains a concern as the cyclone dissipates.

Tropical Cyclone Jude impacted southern Africa this week, primarily affecting Malawi and Mozambique. Although the cyclone caused extensive damage, officials reported no fatalities. Thousands have lost their homes, and many areas are experiencing power outages. Aid agencies are struggling to provide relief due to damaged infrastructure, including washed-away roads.

The cyclone made landfall in northern Mozambique and subsequently traversed southern Malawi, unleashing heavy rains on 13 districts from Monday to Wednesday. Preliminary assessments indicate that over 11,000 people have been affected, with many suffering crop loss and property damage due to flooding. Approximately 3,000 individuals have been displaced and are currently housed in six evacuation camps.

Despite the absence of deaths, the Disaster Management Department noted that 15 individuals have sustained injuries, including two minors, ages 5 and 8, who have been admitted to hospitals for treatment. Efforts to locate three missing persons continue in Nsanje and Phalombe districts following a boating incident caused by flooded conditions.

The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs highlighted challenges faced in Mozambique due to the destruction of essential roads and bridges, particularly in Nampula province. Relief distribution remains difficult, especially for items moving from Cabo Delgado to Nampula, as the N1 national highway has been compromised by the storm.

In response to the disaster, both the Malawi government and international aid organizations have initiated relief operations in areas that remain accessible. Notably, the World Food Program has begun distributing aid in Mulanje district, enhanced by support from the UK government.

Experts predict Cyclone Jude will dissipate as it continues its path toward Mozambique. Lucy Mtilatila, director of Malawi’s Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, stated the immediate danger from the cyclone seems to be diminishing. However, she cautioned that flooding remains a potential threat, though recent rain impacts are expected to be minimal. Cyclone Jude is the third significant cyclone to strike Mozambique within the last three months, following Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi.

Cyclone Jude has significantly impacted southern Africa, particularly Malawi and Mozambique, leading to widespread damage and thousands displaced but thankfully no fatalities reported. Efforts for relief and recovery are underway, although hindered by infrastructural damage. Despite the storm’s dissipation, concerns about lingering flooding remain, emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced by local communities and aid agencies in the region.

Original Source: www.voanews.com