Cyclone Devastation in Mozambique: Bishop Vera Recalls “Night of Terror”

A cyclone ravaged the Diocese of Nacala in Mozambique, affecting over 2,150 individuals. The storm resulted in the destruction of homes, health facilities, and schools. Bishop Vera highlighted the extent of the devastation, including communications disruption. An emergency aid plan has been initiated to support rebuilding efforts in the region.

Bishop Vera of the Diocese of Nacala has described a devastating cyclone that swept through Mozambique, creating what he termed a “night of terror.” The cyclone devastated extensive areas, affecting 2,155 individuals from 380 families, resulting in one fatality and 18 injuries. Its fierce winds and heavy rainfall led to the total destruction of 380 homes and partial damage to an additional 28 residences, leaving numerous families homeless.

The cyclone’s destruction was not limited to residential structures, significantly impacting infrastructure as well. According to reports from World Vision Mozambique, 24 health facilities sustained damage, impairing access to essential medical services in the region. The educational sector also faced adversity, with 27 schools affected, disrupting the education of 2,266 students and interfering with the responsibilities of 158 teachers.

In his message to ACN, Bishop Vera recounted the dire circumstances, noting that the cyclone left many chapels, schools, and pastoral centers without roofs. He stated, “The destruction is very extensive. Around half of the mud houses in the 10 districts of the Diocese of Nacala were damaged.” He further mentioned, “The most terrible thing, in all the districts, was the heavy rains, accompanied by very strong winds, of 100 to 150 kilometres per hour.” Such extreme weather conditions destroyed several bridges, severing vital communications between various regions.

The Diocese of Nacala is no stranger to the cyclical devastation caused by storms during this season. Earlier this year, Cyclone Dikeledi also inflicted severe damage, prompting Bishop Vera to implement an emergency plan aimed at prioritizing reconstruction. This plan included procuring essential building materials like sheet metal, nails, and beams for the restoration of chapels, schools, and communal infrastructures.

In conclusion, the recent cyclone has caused extensive destruction in the Diocese of Nacala, exemplifying the vulnerability of this region to such natural disasters. The immediate need for shelter, healthcare, and educational support is pressing, as many families have been left without basic resources. Bishop Vera’s efforts underscore a proactive response to the challenges posed by these recurrent storms as communities begin the arduous process of rebuilding.

Original Source: www.aciafrica.org