Cyclone Jude Strikes Southern Africa: Damage Survey and Relief Efforts Underway

Tropical Cyclone Jude impacted Malawi and Mozambique causing widespread damage but no fatalities. Thousands are displaced, and relief efforts face difficulties due to damaged infrastructure. Injuries were reported, and the cyclone is noted as the third one affecting Mozambique in recent months. Relief operations are underway with support from international agencies, focusing on assisting those in need.

Tropical Cyclone Jude recently impacted southern Africa, particularly Malawi and Mozambique, causing significant damage without reported fatalities. Thousands have been displaced, accompanied by widespread power outages, as relief operations face challenges due to washed-away roads. The storm’s impact was assessed from Monday to Wednesday, inflicting severe losses to crops and property across 13 districts.

Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs indicated that over 11,000 individuals were affected, with more than 3,000 displaced and seeking refuge in six evacuation camps. While the cyclone did not claim any lives, building collapses resulted in injuries to 15 individuals, including two children. Rescuers continue to search for three missing individuals from a capsized boat.

In Mozambique, relief efforts are severely hindered due to damaged infrastructure in Nampula province. The U.N. reported obstacles in delivering aid as the storm compromised major roads. In Malawi, international organizations and the government have initiated relief efforts in reachable areas, notably through the World Food Program’s distribution of supplies.

Simon Denhere from the WFP stated that logistics were supported by the UK government, ensuring prompt assistance including food and emergency supplies. Meteorological experts indicated that Cyclone Jude has shifted towards Mozambique, with minimal threats anticipated moving forward, although flooding remains a concern. Jude is noted as the third cyclone to affect Mozambique in recent months, following Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi.

Cyclone Jude has notably affected Malawi and Mozambique, displacing thousands and causing significant infrastructural damage without any recorded fatalities. Despite challenges faced by aid agencies in reaching the affected regions, relief operations have commenced, emphasizing a collaborative effort for recovery. The cyclone’s shift towards Mozambique is expected to reduce immediate threats, although vigilance concerning potential flooding is still warranted. The continuous occurrence of cyclones in the region underscores the need for robust disaster preparedness and response strategies.

Original Source: www.voanews.com