Tropical Cyclone Jude impacted Mozambique, causing severe winds and rainfall. Initial assessments suggest fewer than 5,000 affected, but projections indicate up to 275,000 may be impacted. The Shelter Cluster is actively coordinating response efforts and conducting assessments while addressing data gaps.
On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure system in the southwestern Indian Ocean developed into Tropical Cyclone Jude, making landfall in the Mossuril district of Nampula province on March 10. This cyclone brought extreme weather conditions, with wind speeds reaching 195 km/h and rainfall surpassing 250 mm within 24 hours. After weakening to a severe tropical storm, it affected the northeastern part of Zambezia province. As of March 12, heavy rainfall continues as the storm approaches the Mozambique Channel, predicted to exit the continent by March 13. Flood alerts are currently in place for multiple provinces including Nampula, Zambezia, Tete, Manica, and Sofala.
Initial impact assessments from the government are limited, leaving significant data gaps that affect the accuracy of estimating affected populations and damage to infrastructure. While preliminary reports indicate fewer than 5,000 affected individuals, projections suggest that between 120,000 and 275,000 people could ultimately be impacted by the storm. The disparity highlights the urgent need for accurate data collection and validation.
In response, the Shelter Cluster has initiated several key activities in the affected provinces. They have mapped their on-ground capacity, identifying partners with deployment capabilities and stock delivery resources. Coordinating closely with local authorities is essential for ensuring timely information exchange. Additionally, partners will be ready to conduct needs assessments as soon as conditions permit.
The Shelter Cluster plans to deploy to Quelimane to assist with various humanitarian activities. Furthermore, an estimate of the affected population, response strategies, and financial requirements has been submitted to OCHA to facilitate updates for the Flash Appeal, aiming to mobilize resources for those in need.
The situation following Tropical Cyclone Jude presents significant challenges for Mozambique, particularly regarding data collection and response coordination. With a vast gap between initial estimates and projected impacts, prompt actions by the Shelter Cluster are crucial. Ongoing coordination with authorities and readiness for assessments highlight the humanitarian response efforts necessary to address the needs of the affected populations in the wake of the cyclone’s devastation.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
