Cyclone Jude has caused at least 14 deaths and 60 injuries in Mozambique. Major destruction includes 7,041 homes and 30 health units. Authorities are working on repairs, with funds estimated at 800 million meticais needed for critical road repairs. Displacement shelters have been established for the affected residents. The cyclone is expected to move into the Indian Ocean.
The known death toll from Cyclone Jude in Mozambique has reached 14, as confirmed by Inocencio Impissa, the Minister of State Administration. In addition, approximately 60 individuals have sustained injuries due to the cyclone’s impact. The leading causes of death include the collapse of inadequately constructed houses, lightning strikes, and drowning, with concerns that the death toll may rise as more information becomes available from remote areas.
The cyclone caused significant destruction, impacting 7,041 houses while damaging an additional 13,139. Furthermore, 30 health units and 182 classrooms across 59 schools were affected, impacting 17,401 pupils and 264 teachers. Despite the disruptions, light vehicle traffic has resumed between Nampula city and northern Mozambique, though main access routes remain compromised.
The main north-south highway (EN1) experienced substantial damage, including a 20-meter gap near the Anchilo administrative post. Authorities have initiated temporary diversions to facilitate traffic flow, although heavy trucks are currently unable to pass. Minister Joao Matlombe estimates that approximately 800 million meticais (around 12.5 million dollars) will be necessary for repairs on key road sections, with a detailed survey likely to indicate the need for further complex repairs.
The cyclone also caused structural damage to 19 electricity pylons and flooded 1,262 hectares of agricultural land, prompting ongoing multi-sector assessments in the affected districts. Nine accommodation centres have been established in Nampula for displaced individuals, with nearly 1,985 seeking shelter as of Saturday.
Initially projected to move west toward Malawi, Cyclone Jude instead altered its trajectory, passing through Zambezia province. It made landfall in southern Madagascar on Saturday morning, with forecasts indicating that it will head into the Indian Ocean, likely posing no additional threat to Mozambique.
In summary, Cyclone Jude has inflicted considerable damage across northern and central Mozambique, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and numerous injuries. The destruction of housing and infrastructure highlights the vulnerability of communities to severe weather events. Ongoing assessments and repairs are crucial as authorities strive to restore access and provide necessary support to affected populations. Fortunately, the cyclone’s path suggests it will not further threaten Mozambique.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
