Cyclone Jude Hits Malawi and Mozambique, Causing Widespread Damage Without Fatalities

Cyclone Jude struck southern Africa, causing extensive damage in Malawi and Mozambique without any reported deaths. Thousands are displaced, and relief efforts face obstacles due to damaged infrastructure. Injuries were reported, and search operations are continuing for missing individuals. The cyclone is expected to dissipate soon, but flooding remains a concern.

Tropical Cyclone Jude recently impacted southern Africa, particularly Malawi and Mozambique, causing damage but thankfully resulting in no fatalities. Thousands have lost their homes and many regions are experiencing power outages. Relief efforts face challenges due to washed-away roads that hinder access for aid agencies.

The cyclone made landfall in northern Mozambique, traversing southern Malawi, leading to heavy rainfall that affected 13 districts from Monday through Wednesday. A report from Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs revealed that over 11,000 individuals were impacted, with significant losses in crops and property due to flooding.

The evaluation indicated that more than 3,000 people have been displaced, currently residing in six evacuation camps. While no deaths have been reported, 15 individuals were injured due to collapsing structures, including two young boys aged 5 and 8 who are receiving medical attention.

Search operations are underway for three individuals who went missing after a boat capsized in areas affected by the flooding. Additionally, the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs noted that access to relief efforts in Mozambique is severely restricted, complicating the transportation of aid supplies due to damage to infrastructure.

In Malawi, some relief operations have commenced in areas that are accessible. The World Food Program is distributing essential items in Mulanje district, having prepositioned supplies to facilitate a rapid response following the disaster.

Experts indicate that Cyclone Jude is transitioning into Mozambique, although concerns regarding flooding persist. Authorities have observed that the cyclone is expected to dissipate, with minimal further impact from the rains. Notably, Jude marks the third cyclone to strike Mozambique in a span of three months, following Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi that affected the region earlier this winter.

In summary, Cyclone Jude has significantly impacted Malawi and Mozambique, resulting in damage but no reported fatalities. While relief efforts are underway, challenges persist due to infrastructure damage and access issues. The humanitarian response is adapting to meet the needs of displaced populations, with agencies mobilizing resources effectively despite difficulties posed by the cyclone’s aftermath. As it moves away, the immediate threat may lessen, yet vigilance regarding potential flooding remains important.

Original Source: www.voanews.com