Severe Weather in Zambézia, Mozambique Leads to Fatal Lightning Strikes and Infrastructure Damage

Since October, Zambézia province in Mozambique has experienced severe weather, resulting in 17 fatalities and 46 injuries from lightning strikes. Over 800 homes were destroyed, affecting education for 22,000 students. The INGD has provided assistance to 120 families and pre-positioned supplies in vulnerable areas. Ongoing efforts focus on improving communication and partnerships for disaster management and infrastructure recovery.

In Zambézia province, Mozambique, at least 17 individuals have tragically lost their lives due to lightning strikes, with 46 others sustaining injuries since October of the previous year. Local authorities reported that 120 families have received assistance following heavy rains and subsequent flooding during this period. Hélder da Costa, a provincial delegate of the National Institute for Natural Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD), shared this information during the 1st Ordinary Session of the State Representation Council in Quelimane.

The rainy season has brought moderate to heavy rainfall, sometimes exceeding 30 millimeters in 24 hours, particularly affecting districts such as Morrumbala, Alto Molócuè, and Quelimane. Consequently, over 800 homes were completely destroyed, while approximately 1,300 additional structures, including nine healthcare facilities and 46 schools, suffered partial damage, disrupting the education of 22,000 students and 390 teachers. Furthermore, damages included 63.94 kilometers of roads, fallen electricity poles, and flooded agricultural land across 36 hectares.

To mitigate the situation, the INGD has strategically pre-positioned essential supplies such as cooking oil, soap, rice, and tents in various vulnerable districts, including Luabo and Maganja da Costa. Multi-purpose assistance has been extended to 120 families in districts such as Gurué and Luabo, providing food and non-food items like buckets and water purifiers. Additionally, nine vessels have been allocated to specific areas, ensuring aid reaches those affected effectively.

Secretary of State for Zambézia, Avelino Muchine, stressed the importance of the INGD enhancing communication and developing partnerships with the media to effectively address the impacts of disasters. He emphasized that the current circumstances compel the government to source resources and form national and international collaborations for swift infrastructural recovery.

In summary, Zambézia province is facing significant challenges due to adverse weather conditions, leading to loss of life and widespread destruction. The INGD has responded by providing essential supplies and support to affected families. However, ongoing efforts to establish better communication and partnerships are crucial to mitigate the effects of such disasters and facilitate recovery.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com