Mozambique: Cyclone Jude Death Toll Reaches 14 Amid Widespread Destruction

The death toll from Cyclone Jude in Mozambique is currently at 14, with 60 injuries reported. The cyclone destroyed over 7,000 houses, affected over 30 health units, and damaged numerous schools. Key roads have been compromised, prompting urgent repair needs estimated at 800 million meticais. Nine accommodation centers have been established for displaced individuals as the cyclone moves into the Indian Ocean, posing no further threat to Mozambique.

The death toll from Cyclone Jude, as reported by government spokesperson Inocencio Impissa, has reached 14 in Mozambique. Injuries are reported for 60 individuals, with the primary causes of fatalities attributed to collapsing houses, lightning strikes, and drowning. The total number of casualties may escalate as further data arrives from remote regions that have been adversely affected.

The cyclone has wreaked extensive damage, destroying over 7,000 homes and damaging more than 13,000 others. It also impacted 30 health facilities and 182 classrooms across 59 schools, affecting 17,401 pupils and 264 teachers. Access roads leading into Nampula province were severely damaged, but light vehicle traffic has resumed between Nampula city and northern regions.

The vital north-south highway (EN1) faced significant disruption, particularly near the Anchilo administrative post, where a substantial gap formed in the roadway. The National Roads Administration constructed a diversion for light vehicles, although heavy trucks remain restricted. Minister of Transport and Logistics, Joao Matlombe, assessed the situation in Nampula and noted that approximately 800 million meticais (around 12.5 million dollars) is required for repairs on six essential routes.

Matlombe expressed concern that further assessments might indicate the need for more extensive repairs, especially on bridges. The authorities are prioritizing the establishment of alternative routes for traffic, including using boats in areas where vehicle access is compromised due to damage. Additionally, 19 electricity pylons were toppled, affecting power supply, and 1,262 hectares of farmland were flooded.

Nine accommodation centers have been established in Nampula for displaced individuals, with around 1,985 people currently seeking shelter. Cyclone Jude altered its path and avoided Malawi, instead moving through Zambezia province before reaching southern Madagascar, with uncertain implications moving forward.

In conclusion, Cyclone Jude has had a devastating impact on northern and central Mozambique, resulting in 14 confirmed deaths and substantial infrastructural damage. With thousands of homes destroyed and key access routes affected, repair efforts are underway, though complexities may arise. The response includes setting up accommodation for those displaced, highlighting the urgent need for continued assistance as recovery progresses. It is fortunate the cyclone is not expected to pose further threats to Mozambique as it moves into the Indian Ocean.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com