Tropical Cyclone Jude Claims Nine Lives Across Mozambique and Malawi

Tropical Cyclone Jude has claimed nine lives in Mozambique and Malawi, causing significant injuries and displacement. In Mozambique, six deaths were reported, alongside thousands displaced. Meanwhile, Malawi reported three fatalities and extensive homelessness due to flooding. Relief efforts face challenges from destroyed infrastructure.

Tropical Cyclone Jude has resulted in the unfortunate deaths of at least nine individuals across Mozambique and Malawi, as confirmed by officials. The National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD) in Mozambique reported that six fatalities occurred, with over 20 individuals injured and approximately 9,525 displaced across the northern provinces of Nampula and Niasa, as well as the central province of Zambezia.

In Malawi, three additional fatalities were reported, with around 20,000 individuals rendered homeless due to extensive flooding in the southern region caused by the cyclone. According to Chiphiliro Khamula, a spokesperson for the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) in Malawi, those displaced are currently seeking shelter in evacuation centers.

The cyclone, which made landfall in northern Mozambique early on Sunday, continued its path into southern Malawi, resulting in severe flooding that persisted from Monday to Wednesday. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported that relief operations are facing significant challenges due to the destruction of roads and bridges in affected areas.

Previously, December’s Cyclone Chido wreaked havoc in both countries, claiming the lives of 73 individuals in Mozambique and 13 in Malawi, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of these regions to severe weather events.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Jude has led to the tragic loss of nine lives, significant injuries, and large-scale displacement in Mozambique and Malawi. Relief efforts are currently hindered due to infrastructure damage, demonstrating the continued risks posed by cyclones to these regions. The impacts of previous cyclones further underscore the pressing need for effective disaster management and preparedness strategies.

Original Source: news.az