Tropical Cyclone Jude: Impact Assessment and Shelter Cluster Preparedness in Mozambique

Tropical Cyclone Jude impacted Mozambique, particularly Nampula and Zambezia provinces, causing strong winds and heavy rainfall, leading to potential flooding. Initial reports indicate a significant information gap regarding the number of affected individuals, with estimates ranging from under 5,000 to as high as 275,000. The Shelter Cluster is actively preparing to respond to the needs of the affected communities, despite ongoing challenges in data accuracy.

On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure system developed in the southwestern Indian Ocean, evolving into Tropical Cyclone “JUDE.” The cyclone made landfall on March 10 in the Mossuril district, Nampula province, bringing winds gusting up to 195 km/h and rainfall exceeding 250 mm in 24 hours. Subsequently, it weakened to a severe tropical storm, affecting the northeastern Zambezia province before gradually moving back towards the Mozambique Channel, with heavy rains persisting in the region as of March 12. Flood alerts have been issued for several provinces including Nampula, Zambezia, Tete, Manica, and Sofala.

Despite the government releasing initial impact data, substantial information gaps persist, impeding accurate assessments of the individuals affected and the damage incurred to infrastructure. Preliminary reports indicate that fewer than 5,000 individuals are affected; however, projections from governmental and humanitarian agencies suggest that Tropical Storm Jude may impact between 120,000 and 275,000 persons.

The Shelter Cluster has conducted a mapping of its resources in the affected province, identifying partners with physical presence, delivery capabilities, and preparedness for response actions. Coordination efforts with local authorities are ongoing to facilitate timely information exchange. Partners equipped to conduct needs assessments are ready to deploy as soon as conditions permit. Furthermore, cluster coordination will support activities in the city of Quelimane and has submitted target population estimates and response activity requirements to OCHA for a Flash Appeal update.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Jude has resulted in significant weather disturbances in Mozambique, principally affecting the northeastern part of Zambezia and inducing concerns about flooding across several provinces. The Shelter Cluster is mobilizing resources and coordinating responses to assess needs and support affected populations, despite challenges in obtaining accurate data regarding the storm’s overall impact. The community and governmental projections anticipate a far larger affected populace than currently reported.

Original Source: reliefweb.int