Updates on Shelter and NFI Cluster Amid Tropical Cyclone JUDE in Mozambique

Tropical Cyclone JUDE made landfall in Mozambique on March 10, 2025, causing strong winds and heavy rainfall. Initial government reports indicate fewer than 5,000 affected, though projections suggest up to 275,000 could be impacted. The Shelter Cluster is actively coordinating response efforts and assessing needs.

On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure system developed in the southwestern Indian Ocean and intensified into Tropical Cyclone JUDE, making landfall on March 10 in the Mossuril district of Nampula province. The cyclone produced damaging winds reaching 195 km/h and heavy rainfall exceeding 250 mm within 24 hours. Although it weakened to a severe tropical storm while traversing northeastern Zambezia province, significant rainfall continues to affect the region, with flood alerts issued for multiple provinces including Nampula, Zambezia, Tete, Manica, and Sofala.

Initial impact reports from the government reveal substantial gaps in information, complicating the assessment of affected populations and infrastructural damages. Preliminary estimates indicate that fewer than 5,000 individuals have been impacted, although government and humanitarian projections suggest a potential range of 120,000 to 275,000 affected by Tropical Storm JUDE.

In response, the Shelter Cluster is actively mapping its capabilities within the provinces. This includes identifying partners with a physical presence, assessing deployment abilities, managing stock delivery, and planning response actions. Coordination efforts are taking place with local authorities to ensure a seamless exchange of timely information.

Presently, partners are available in various provinces were conditions allow for support and needs assessments. Additionally, the cluster’s coordination team will deploy to Quelimane to facilitate essential activities. An estimate of required aid, target populations, and financial needs has been submitted to OCHA in preparation for a Flash Appeal update.

Tropical Cyclone JUDE has significantly affected Mozambique’s central and southern regions, particularly impacting Zambezia province with ongoing rainfall. There are considerable gaps in initial data regarding affected populations and infrastructural damage, with projections suggesting up to 275,000 individuals may be impacted. The Shelter Cluster is coordinating efforts to assess needs and deploy resources effectively in collaboration with local authorities.

Original Source: reliefweb.int