Seventeen fatalities and 46 injuries due to lightning strikes have been recorded in Zambézia, Mozambique, since October of the prior year. In response, local authorities have supported 120 affected families. The province has experienced heavy rainfall leading to significant infrastructure damage, including homes, schools, and roads, necessitating urgent governmental response and aid mobilization efforts.
In Zambézia province, Mozambique, seventeen individuals have tragically lost their lives due to lightning strikes, with an additional 46 people suffering injuries since October of the previous year. Local authorities reported that 120 families had been provided assistance owing to severe weather impacts, including heavy rains and flooding.
Data presented by Hélder da Costa, the provincial delegate of the National Institute for Natural Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD), indicated that the rainy season has led to moderate to heavy rainfall, reaching up to 30 millimeters within a single day. Affected districts include Morrumbala, Alto Molócuè, Maganja da Costa, Chinde, Milange, Mocuba, and Quelimane.
As a consequence of these extreme weather conditions, over 800 homes have been completely destroyed, with an additional 1,300 partially damaged, which includes nine health facilities and 46 schools. This destruction has disrupted education for approximately 22,000 students and 390 educators.
Road infrastructure has also been severely impacted, with 63.94 kilometers of roads damaged and electricity transmission poles collapsing. Approximately 36 hectares of agricultural land have been flooded, exacerbating the crisis.
To address the situation, the INGD has stocked essential supplies, including oil, soap, rice, flour, and tents, in districts particularly susceptible to severe weather. Multi-purpose assistance has been provided to 120 families in the Gurué, Luabo, and Molumbo regions, offering both food and non-food items such as tents and water purifiers.
In addition, nine vessels have been strategically positioned to aid districts suffering from flooding, with planned allocations for transportation in Chinde, Namacurra, Nicoadala, Maganja da Costa, and Mopeia, along with two boats designated for Quelimane. Vessels provided by partners will augment the resources from the INGD.
Secretary of State for Zambézia, Avelino Muchine, underscored the urgency of enhancing communication and media partnerships to mitigate the impacts of such disasters. He emphasized that the government must mobilize resources and explore both national and international partnerships to expedite the rebuilding of destroyed infrastructure.
The situation in Zambézia province highlights the severe impact of natural disasters, leading to loss of life, destruction of homes and infrastructure, and disruption of education. Continued efforts by authorities, including the provision of emergency assistance and relocation of essential resources, are crucial in supporting affected families and communities. Collaborative partnerships and improved communication are necessary for effective disaster management and recovery.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
