Cyclone Jude struck Northern Mozambique, causing significant damages with wind speeds up to 195 km/h. It is the third storm to hit the region in four months, resulting in flooding and homeless residents, particularly affecting children. UNICEF is actively providing emergency aid in response to the worsening humanitarian crisis.
Cyclone Jude severely impacted Northern Mozambique, marking the third storm to strike the area in four months. The cyclone made landfall early Monday morning, with sustained winds reaching 140 km/h (87 mph) and gusts climbing to 195 km/h, as reported by the National Institute of Meteorology (INAM). The tropical storm specifically affected the Mossuril district in Nampula province, resulting in widespread flooding and infrastructural damage, contributing to homelessness and power outages among the residents.
The sudden severity of Cyclone Jude caught many locals in Nacala, a provincial city, by surprise. The region, already burdened from earlier storms in December and January, faces a strained humanitarian response capacity. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) described the situation as “very bad,” particularly highlighting the heightened vulnerability of children amid the crisis.
With the flooding exacerbating the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, diarrhoea, and malaria, UNICEF noted that Nampula province has the highest population of children in Mozambique. To address the urgent needs, UNICEF is collaborating with the government to distribute emergency aid kits and essential supplies to those most affected by the cyclone.
Cyclone Jude’s impact on Northern Mozambique highlights the increasing vulnerability of the region due to recurrent storms and their devastating effects. The humanitarian response is crucial as children bear the brunt of this crisis, facing heightened health risks and displacement. Continued support and collaboration between agencies like UNICEF and the government are vital in addressing immediate needs and ensuring long-term recovery for affected communities.
Original Source: www.tvcnews.tv
