Tropical Storm Jude’s Impact on Mozambique: Shelter and NFI…

Tropical Cyclone Jude struck Mozambique, affecting several provinces with heavy rainfall and winds. Initial reports suggest over 4,500 people affected, but estimates indicate up to 275,000 may be impacted. The Shelter Cluster has begun mobilizing resources for response activities and needs assessments.

On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure system developed in the southwestern Indian Ocean, evolving into Tropical Cyclone Jude, which made landfall in the Mossuril district of Nampula province on March 10. The cyclone produced wind gusts reaching 195 km/h and heavy rain exceeding 250 mm in 24 hours. Subsequently, it downgraded to a severe tropical storm affecting Zambezia province, particularly the Gilé and Pebane districts, and is expected to continue causing heavy rainfall as it moves back toward the Mozambique Channel, exiting by March 13. Flood alerts have been issued for Nampula, Zambezia, Tete, Manica, and Sofala provinces due to the cyclone’s impact.

While initial impact data from the government indicate that approximately 4,536 people have been affected, significant information gaps remain, which obscure accurate assessment of the overall situation. Estimates from government and humanitarian agencies suggest that the number of individuals impacted could range from 120,000 to 275,000 as a result of Tropical Storm Jude.

The Shelter Cluster is actively responding to the crisis. It has evaluated its capacity in the affected provinces, detailing partner organizations’ capabilities in terms of physical presence, deployment, and support activities. Coordination efforts with local authorities are focused on ensuring prompt information exchange regarding the situation. Partners are positioned in the province and ready to conduct needs assessments as soon as conditions permit. Furthermore, the cluster coordination will engage in activities in the city of Quelimane. A needs assessment, including an estimate of people requiring assistance, target populations, and financial needs, has been submitted to the OCHA for the Flash Appeal update.

In conclusion, Tropical Storm Jude has significantly impacted Mozambique with potential consequences affecting up to 275,000 individuals. Efforts by the Shelter Cluster to coordinate resources and conduct needs assessments are essential to address the urgent requirements of the affected populations. Timely information exchange with local authorities and understanding of the comprehensive impact will help mitigate the ongoing crisis and support recovery efforts.

Original Source: reliefweb.int