Impact of Cyclone Jude on Mozambique’s Nampula Coast

Tropical Cyclone Jude struck the Nampula coast of Mozambique, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall, affecting over 341,000 individuals. Schools were closed, power outages occurred, and domestic flights to the region were canceled. The storm is expected to weaken as it moves towards Malawi.

Tropical Cyclone Jude made landfall on the northern coast of Mozambique on Sunday night, near the port city of Nacala. As reported by the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre, the cyclone had moved approximately 100 kilometers inland by mid-morning on Monday, exhibiting wind speeds of 65 knots (120 kilometers per hour). The storm is expected to continue its trajectory westward and possibly enter Malawi by Tuesday afternoon, with anticipated wind speeds dropping below 35 knots.

Significant rainfall is expected in the Nampula coastal districts, particularly in Nacala, Mossuril, Memba, Mozambique Island, and Monapo, with forecasts estimating between 100 and 200 millimeters of rain within a 24-hour period. Rainfall in Nampula province has been ongoing since Saturday night, raising concerns for local communities.

The National Disaster Management Institute (INGD) in Mozambique has identified that over 341,000 individuals in the province are at high risk from the cyclone’s impact. Schools throughout the province have been closed as announced by the provincial directorate of education on Monday, addressing safety concerns for students.

Infrastructural damage has been reported, as several electricity pylons have collapsed due to the cyclone’s ferocity. Consequently, approximately 40,000 clients of the public electricity company, EDM, were without power as of Monday morning. Mozambique Airlines (LAM) also suspended all domestic flights to the northern region, affecting connectivity to Nampula, Nacala, and Pemba. LAM has assured affected passengers that they will be accommodated on future flights when conditions permit.

In summary, Cyclone Jude has created significant disruptions along the northern Mozambican coast, particularly in Nampula. The cyclone’s impact includes extensive rainfall, the risk to over 341,000 people, school closures, power outages for many, and cancellations of flights to the affected regions. As the storm weakens, efforts will be made to restore normalcy and address the needs of the impacted communities.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com