Cyclone Jude Strikes Northern Mozambique, Causing Significant Disruptions
Tropical cyclone Jude struck northern Mozambique on Sunday night, impacting Nampula and surrounding areas. It is causing heavy rainfall and high winds, prompting school closures and power outages. Over 341,000 people are considered at high risk, with major transport disruptions due to flight cancellations. The cyclone is expected to weaken as it moves towards Malawi.
Tropical cyclone Jude made landfall on Sunday night at the northern coast of Mozambique, near Nacala. According to the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre (JTWC), the cyclone had progressed approximately 100 kilometers inland by Monday morning, exhibiting wind speeds of 65 knots (120 kilometers per hour). The storm is moving westward and is expected to enter Malawi by Tuesday afternoon, with wind speeds diminishing to below 35 knots.
The coastal districts of Nampula, namely Nacala, Mossuril, Memba, Mozambique Island, and Monapo, are forecasted to experience torrential rain, with anticipated rainfall between 100 and 200 millimeters within a 24-hour period. Rainfall in Nampula province commenced on Saturday night, indicating the cyclone’s impact is already being felt.
The National Disaster Management Institute (INGD) of Mozambique has identified over 341,000 individuals in the province as being at high risk due to the cyclone’s effects. In response, the provincial education authority has mandated the closure of all schools in the province for Monday as a precautionary measure.
The cyclone has caused significant infrastructure damage, including the collapse of electricity pylons, resulting in approximately 40,000 customers of the public electricity company, EDM, being without power as of Monday morning. In addition, Mozambique Airlines (LAM) has suspended all domestic flights to the northern regions of the country, affecting destinations such as Nampula, Nacala, and Pemba. LAM has assured passengers that affected flights will be rescheduled once conditions improve and operations can resume safely.
In conclusion, tropical cyclone Jude has significantly impacted northern Mozambique, particularly the Nampula province, affecting over 341,000 individuals. With torrential rain and powerful winds, the cyclone has led to school closures, power outages, and flight cancellations. As recovery efforts commence, the local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, addressing the needs of those affected by this severe weather event.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
