Cyclone Jude has caused widespread power outages in northern Mozambique, leaving over 270,000 customers in Nampula province without electricity. The cyclone resulted in significant infrastructure damage and has affected thousands of people, including casualties. Emergency measures are being undertaken to assist those impacted as Mozambique faces ongoing challenges related to climate change.
In northern Mozambique, Cyclone Jude has left 272,757 customers without electricity in the Nampula province due to severe weather conditions. The electric utility, Eletricidade de Mozambique (EDM), reported considerable damage, including the destruction of 74 kilometers of power lines and the collapse of six transformer stations and two high voltage towers along the Namialo and Monapoque line.
The cyclone has disrupted power supply in the Nampula, Angoche, and Nacala substations that serve approximately 15 districts and several neighborhoods. The estimated cost of the destruction stands at around 100 million meticais (approximately €1.4 million). Currently, blocked access roads are hindering restoration efforts, although power has been reinstated in parts of Nampula, Nacala, and various districts like Monapo, Liupo, and Mongicual.
Casualties from Cyclone Jude include at least six fatalities, while approximately 20 individuals have suffered injuries. The cyclone has also disrupted the lives of 9,525 people across Nampula, Niassa, and Zambézia provinces. Educational institutions have not been spared, with 17,401 schoolchildren and 264 teachers experiencing disruptions, affecting 59 schools and 181 classrooms.
The cyclone initially struck Mozambique with winds reaching 140 kilometers per hour, accompanied by gusts of up to 195 kilometers per hour. It subsequently downgraded to a severe tropical storm and is anticipated to generate substantial rainfall of up to 250 millimeters over 24 hours. Emergency operational committees are already collaborating with the government to address the needs of those affected, estimating a total potential impact on 341,000 individuals.
Mozambique is currently experiencing its rainy season from October to April, which includes frequent cyclones such as Jude, Chido, and Dikeledi that have previously impacted the northern regions. The earlier cyclones accounted for significant destruction, affecting around 736,000 people between December and January.
Furthermore, data from the National Statistics Institute (INE) indicates that extreme weather events in Mozambique resulted in at least 1,016 deaths between 2019 and 2023, impacting roughly 4.9 million citizens. The nation is among the most vulnerable to climate change, facing seasonal floods, tropical cyclones, and extended drought periods.
In summary, Cyclone Jude has severely impacted Nampula province, resulting in significant electrical outages and casualties. The destruction of infrastructure and disruption to basic services have necessitated emergency responses to support affected populations. Mozambique’s ongoing challenges with extreme weather highlight the broader impacts of climate change on vulnerable regions, necessitating continued aid and infrastructure resilience efforts.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
