Tropical Cyclone JUDE: Impact and Shelter Cluster Response in Mozambique
Tropical Cyclone JUDE made landfall in Mozambique on March 10, 2025, bringing extreme winds and heavy rainfall, leading to flood alerts in several provinces. Initial government data shows fewer than 5,000 affected, but projections suggest potential impacts on up to 275,000 individuals. Shelter Cluster activities are focused on mapping response capabilities and coordinating with local authorities for effective action.
On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure system emerged in the southwestern basin of the Indian Ocean, eventually developing into Tropical Cyclone JUDE by March 10. The cyclone made landfall in the Mossuril district of Nampula province, bringing wind gusts reaching 195 km/h and heavy rainfall exceeding 250 mm in a 24-hour period. Following landfall, it weakened into a severe tropical storm, affecting the northeastern areas of Zambezia province, particularly in the Gilé and Pebane districts, while generating ongoing heavy rainfall as it approached the Mozambique Channel.
As of March 12, Tropical Storm Jude continues to induce significant rainfall across the provinces including Nampula, Zambezia, Tete, Manica, and Sofala, leading to flood alerts. Despite the gravity of the situation, there is a lack of comprehensive data to accurately assess the number of impacted individuals and the damage to infrastructure and services. The initial government data indicates that fewer than 5,000 individuals have been affected, yet projections suggest that up to 275,000 people may be impacted by the storm.
Regarding shelter cluster activities, there is an ongoing mapping of capacities within the province by the cluster, encompassing partner capacities for response, stock delivery, and coordination with local authorities for effective information sharing. Partners are prepared to conduct needs assessments as soon as conditions permit, while cluster coordination anticipates deploying to Quelimane to facilitate these activities. An estimate of the affected population, response strategies, and financial requirements have already been communicated to OCHA for the Flash Appeal update.
In conclusion, the ongoing situation surrounding Tropical Cyclone JUDE poses significant risks to the population of Mozambique, particularly across Nampula and Zambezia provinces. While preliminary impact assessments suggest a limited number of affected individuals, broader projections are far greater. The Shelter Cluster’s proactive mapping and coordination efforts are essential as the region navigates recovery and support.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
