Emergency Response to Cyclone Jude: IOM Distributes Kits in Mozambique

The IOM will distribute 2,800 emergency kits to cyclone Jude victims in Mozambique. The cyclone has caused significant casualties and damage in several provinces, prompting urgent calls for support. Mozambique remains vulnerable to climate change effects such as cyclones and floods, significantly impacting its populations.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) announced it will distribute 2,800 emergency kits to those impacted by tropical cyclone Jude in the provinces of Zambézia and Nampula, Mozambique. The agency is actively assessing needs and providing essential support amidst significant challenges in the affected areas.

Tropical Cyclone Jude made landfall on Monday in the Mossuril district of Nampula, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and injuring 60 individuals. Approximately 100,410 people have been impacted across several provinces including Tete, Manica, Zambézia, Nampula, Niassa, and Cabo Delgado.

The emergency kits, which contain mats, mosquito nets, blankets, and tarpaulins, are crucial for those affected by the cyclone. IOM reiterated, “Urgent support is needed [in the affected provinces].” The government’s data indicates that 30 health centres have been destroyed, and nearly 20,000 families are affected.

Currently, 20,244 homes have been either partially or fully destroyed, impacting 59 schools and affecting more than 17,401 pupils and 264 teachers, alongside significant agricultural losses. Mozambique is undergoing its rainy season, which is fraught with cyclone threats causing widespread devastation.

From 2019 to 2023, extreme weather events, such as cyclones, have resulted in at least 1,016 fatalities and affected around 4.9 million people according to the National Statistics Institute (INE). Mozambique is considered highly vulnerable to climate change, experiencing both severe flooding and drought during different seasons.

The IOM’s distribution of emergency supplies following cyclone Jude underscores the urgent need for support in Mozambique. The cyclone has had devastating consequences, with substantial loss of life and property. As the country faces continuous climate-related challenges, focused assistance and immediate relief are essential to aid recovery efforts and support the affected populations.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com