On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure system developed into Tropical Cyclone Jude, causing severe damage in Mozambique. Estimated affected individuals are under 5,000 according to initial reports, while projections suggest a range of 120,000 to 275,000. The Shelter Cluster is coordinating response efforts and assessing needs in collaboration with local authorities.
On March 6, 2025, a low-pressure system in the southwestern Indian Ocean transformed into Tropical Cyclone “JUDE,” making landfall on March 10 in the Mossuril district of Nampula province. The cyclone brought severe winds up to 195 km/h and intense rainfall exceeding 250 mm in a 24-hour period. As of March 12, Tropical Storm Jude has continued to cause significant rainfall while moving towards the Mozambique Channel, with an expected exit on March 13, alongside flood alerts in several provinces including Nampula and Zambezia.
The government’s initial impact assessment indicates that nearly 5,000 individuals are affected; however, this figure lacks detail due to ongoing information gaps. Humanitarian projections suggest a far larger impact, estimating that between 120,000 and 275,000 people may be influenced by Tropical Storm Jude. Continuous monitoring and assessment are crucial for an accurate evaluation of the storm’s full effects.
The Shelter Cluster is actively mapping its available capacity in the affected provinces, reviewing its partners, deployment capabilities, and stock delivery systems to efficiently respond to needs. Coordinating with local authorities is a priority to ensure timely information sharing. Partners are also ready to conduct needs assessments once conditions allow, with coordination efforts extended to Quelimane for various activities.
An estimate detailing the target population in need and proposed response activities, along with financial requirements, has been submitted to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) for inclusion in the Flash Appeal update. This structured response is critical as the community deals with the aftermath of the cyclone.
In summary, the situation following Tropical Cyclone Jude presents serious challenges, with initial assessments indicating far fewer affected individuals than humanitarian projections suggest. The Shelter Cluster is mobilizing resources and coordinating efforts with local authorities to address the needs as assessments progress. The assistance outlined in the Flash Appeal update will be essential for mitigating the storm’s impact on local populations.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
