Tropical Cyclone Jude: Impact Assessment and Shelter Cluster Response in Mozambique
Tropical Cyclone Jude made landfall in Mozambique on March 10, 2025, bringing damaging winds and heavy rainfall. Initial government data reports fewer than 5,000 affected individuals, while projections suggest up to 275,000 may be impacted. The Shelter Cluster is mapping its capacity and coordinating with local authorities to support response efforts.
On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure system in the southwestern Indian Ocean developed into Tropical Cyclone “JUDE,” making landfall on March 10 in Mozambique’s Mossuril district, Nampula province. The cyclone produced strong winds, reaching gusts of 195 km/h, and intense rainfall exceeding 250 mm within a 24-hour period. After weakening into a severe tropical storm, Jude progressed into northeastern Zambezia province, notably affecting the Gilé and Pebane districts. By March 12, Tropical Storm Jude continued to generate significant rainfall as it approached the Mozambique Channel, with an anticipated exit from the continent on March 13. Flood alerts have been issued for the provinces of Nampula, Zambezia, Tete, Manica, and Sofala alongside the reported impact of strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Initial impact data released by the government reveals information gaps that complicate efforts to ascertain accurate figures on affected individuals and damage extent. Preliminary estimates indicate that fewer than 5,000 individuals have been affected by the storm. However, government and humanitarian assessments project that between 120,000 and 275,000 persons may experience impacts from Tropical Storm Jude.
In response, the Shelter Cluster has identified its operational capacity within the region, documenting partner availability, deployment capabilities, and stock delivery potential. Furthermore, the cluster has established close coordination with local authorities to facilitate the exchange of timely information. With partners available in the provinces, the Shelter Cluster can mobilize to carry out needs assessments when conditions permit. Additionally, coordination teams will deploy to Quelimane to support ongoing activities. A comprehensive estimate concerning the affected population, response activities, and financial requirements has been submitted to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) for inclusion in the Flash Appeal update.
The evolving situation due to Tropical Storm Jude has prompted significant governmental and humanitarian concern regarding potential impacts on the population and infrastructure. With initial data suggesting fewer immediate effects, contrasting projections indicate that many more might be at risk. The Shelter Cluster’s preparedness efforts and coordination with local authorities aim to address the needs of those affected as assessments and support initiatives are established following the storm’s passage.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
