Cyclone Jude Devastates Northern Mozambique: A Growing Humanitarian Crisis

Cyclone Jude struck Northern Mozambique as the third storm in four months, causing severe flooding and infrastructural damage. With winds reaching 140 km/h and gusts up to 195 km/h, the cyclone left many homeless, particularly affecting children in Nampula province. UNICEF is providing emergency aid in response to the crisis.

Cyclone Jude has severely impacted Northern Mozambique, marking the third storm to strike the region within a span of four months. The cyclone made landfall on Monday morning, delivering winds of 140 km/h (87 mph) and gusts reaching 195 km/h, as reported by the National Institute of Meteorology (INAM). The storm first hit the Mossuril district in Nampula province, resulting in extensive flooding and damage to infrastructure, leaving many without homes and electricity.

The local residents in Nacala expressed their astonishment at the severity of the storm, which arrived at a time when the region’s humanitarian response capabilities were already stretched thin due to previous cyclones in December and January. The situation was further aggravated by rising vulnerability in the community, particularly among children, which was described as “very bad” by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). It has been noted that Nampula province has the highest population of children in Mozambique.

The threat of waterborne diseases, including cholera, diarrhea, and malaria, has escalated significantly due to the flooding caused by Cyclone Jude. In response to this urgent crisis, UNICEF has collaborated with the government to provide emergency aid kits and additional support to affected individuals. Efforts are focused on addressing the immediate needs of the most vulnerable populations post-cyclone.

In conclusion, Cyclone Jude has wrought devastation in Northern Mozambique, complicating an already challenging humanitarian situation exacerbated by two preceding storms. As local communities grapple with rebuilding efforts and face health risks from flooding, organizations like UNICEF are crucial in delivering emergency assistance and protecting vulnerable populations, particularly children, from the dire repercussions of such natural disasters.

Original Source: www.tvcnews.tv