Tropical Storm Jude has impacted approximately 340,000 people across Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique, causing displacement and infrastructure damage. Humanitarian partners are actively assisting with search and rescue operations, while concerns persist regarding potential health crises, including cholera, following the storm’s aftermath.
On March 18, 2025, reports indicated that Tropical Storm Jude has impacted nearly 340,000 individuals, with thousands displaced across Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique. The storm inflicted widespread damage to infrastructure and agriculture, obstructing vital access to services. Humanitarian organizations have collaborated with government agencies to conduct rescue operations and mobilize essential resources.
In Madagascar, the cyclone primarily affected the Atsimo Andrefana region, displacing over 10,500 individuals into temporary shelters. The storm caused significant structural damage, flooding numerous homes and disrupting education for over 48,000 students due to the destruction of classrooms. Access to impacted districts remains limited owing to severe road damage.
In Malawi, approximately 20,650 residents were affected, resulting in displacement and a search for missing individuals. The storm’s effects were most profound in districts such as Phalombe and Nsanje, which reported heavy rainfall. Efforts are underway to provide maize and cash assistance to displaced families, alongside the establishment of emergency shelters.
In Mozambique, the cyclone made landfall and severely affected Nampula province, resulting in extensive property damage. Reports indicate that more than 302,000 individuals are affected, with a heightened risk of cholera outbreaks following the disaster. Humanitarian responses are being hindered due to previous cyclone impacts and ongoing health crises, complicating relief efforts.
Humanitarian partnerships are proving vital in addressing the storm’s aftermath, focusing on immediate relief measures and long-term recovery strategies. In Madagascar, efforts to provide shelter, food, and health services are ongoing, while Malawi’s government is promoting awareness and aid distribution. Mozambique is facing considerable challenges but is activating coordination efforts to address needs in the most vulnerable communities. Overall, these coordinated responses aim to mitigate the impact of the cyclone while preparing for potential health crises that may arise in the aftermath.
In summary, Tropical Storm Jude has caused substantial devastation across Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique, affecting nearly 340,000 individuals. While humanitarian organizations work diligently to address immediate needs, significant risks remain, particularly concerning potential spikes in cholera cases. The importance of coordinated emergency response efforts cannot be overstated as affected regions strive to recover from this disaster while addressing ongoing challenges, particularly in Mozambique and Malawi’s health infrastructure.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
