Devastating Impact of Cyclone Jude on Mozambique

Cyclone Jude has caused 16 fatalities and affected over 302,000 people in Mozambique. The cyclone damaged 70,163 homes, 247 schools, and other critical infrastructure. Mozambique is facing severe challenges from climate change, with historical data indicating significant loss of life and damage from recent weather events.

Cyclone Jude has severely impacted Mozambique, resulting in 16 fatalities and affecting over 302,000 individuals, as per the latest report from the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD). Currently, two persons are reported missing, and the total number of affected individuals has reached 302,653, encompassing 65,164 families across various provinces including Tete and Manica, as well as Zambézia, Nampula, Niassa, and Cabo Delgado.

According to INGD data, Cyclone Jude has destroyed or damaged 70,163 houses, with an additional 988 structures subjected to flooding. The cyclone has also affected 134 places of worship, 247 schools, and 674 classrooms, impacting approximately 91,629 students and 1,182 teachers. Furthermore, the cyclone has devastated 18 bridges, 41 aqueducts, and 101,239 agricultural areas across the region.

The assessment indicates that at least 72 health facilities and two public buildings have been destroyed, alongside damage to 68 vessels, eight supply systems, 1,224 overturned electricity poles, and 2,859 kilometers of roadways. The current rainy season, which spans October to April, has already seen additional cyclonic activity, with previous storms like Chido and Dikeledi having affected northern Mozambique.

Recent climatic events from 2019 to 2023 have resulted in approximately 1,016 deaths and affected nearly 4.9 million people due to extreme storms, asserts data from the National Institute of Statistics. Mozambique is particularly vulnerable to the repercussions of climate change, experiencing recurrent floods, cyclones, and prolonged drought conditions during the rainy season.

In summary, Cyclone Jude’s destructive impact on Mozambique has led to significant loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture. The country remains in a vulnerable state, facing the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and its associated extreme weather events. The statistics underscore the need for continued support and resilience strategies to mitigate the effects of such disasters in the future.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com