Tropical Cyclone Jude has affected regions of Mozambique since March 10, 2025, with winds of 195 km/h and heavy rainfall. Initial government estimates suggest fewer than 5,000 affected, while projections indicate up to 275,000 could be impacted. The Shelter Cluster is coordinating resources and conducting needs assessments to respond to this crisis.
On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure system developed over the southwestern Indian Ocean and subsequently became Tropical Cyclone “JUDE”. The cyclone struck the Mossuril district in Nampula province on March 10, producing winds reaching 195 km/h and rainfall exceeding 250 mm within a 24-hour period. Following landfall, it weakened to a severe tropical storm while traversing northeastern Zambezia province, impacting the Gilé and Pebane districts. By March 12, Tropical Storm Jude continued to provoke heavy rainfall, with an expected exit from the continent on March 13, alongside flood alerts issued for several regions.
Despite the government providing initial reports, substantial information gaps remain that impede accurate assessments of those affected and the scale of infrastructural damage. Preliminary data suggests fewer than 5,000 affected individuals; however, projections from governmental and humanitarian sources estimate that between 120,000 and 275,000 individuals may be impacted by the storm.
The Shelter Cluster has conducted a comprehensive mapping of its resources in the region, documenting partners with on-ground presence, logistics for stock delivery, and their response capabilities. Coordination efforts with local authorities are ongoing to facilitate timely exchanges of information. Moreover, partners in affected provinces are prepared to perform needs assessments as soon as conditions permit, while cluster coordination will expand to Quelimane to enhance support activities. Finally, estimates detailing the number of individuals in need, the target population, and the financial requirements have been forwarded to OCHA to inform the Flash Appeal update.
The emergence of Tropical Cyclone Jude presents a significant humanitarian challenge in Mozambique, particularly in the Zambezia province. With initial government data indicating fewer than 5,000 affected, the discrepancy with broader projections necessitates critical assessments for effective response. The Shelter Cluster’s activities to map resources and coordinate with local authorities are crucial for addressing immediate needs of the potentially impacted populations.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
