Tropical Cyclone Jude has caused devastation in Madagascar, resulting in fatalities, injuries, and significant displacement. The cyclone developed on 6 March, impacting Mozambique on 10 March, with Malawi on alert for potential effects. Emergency response measures are being implemented, with funding released for humanitarian assistance. Challenges remain as affected communities continue to recover from previous cyclones.
On 11 March 2025, a flash update was issued regarding Tropical Cyclone Jude, which impacted Madagascar on 8 March. The cyclone has tragically resulted in one fatality, one injury, and has affected approximately 4,100 individuals, with 3,617 displaced across nine temporary sites primarily in Maroantsetra District. In addition, both residential areas and educational facilities have suffered damages, with 1,300 homes flooded and 40 classrooms affected.
The cyclone intensified into a Tropical Cyclone and made landfall in Mozambique’s Mossuril District on 10 March. The area is currently experiencing severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and dangerous winds. As the cyclone progresses, Malawi’s government has issued a Tropical Storm Warning, with impacts expected to begin on 10 March.
Emergency response measures are being implemented in Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique. The Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) has released $6 million in pre-arranged funding for Mozambique to assist in immediate cyclone response efforts. The humanitarian community, including OCHA, is actively coordinating disaster preparedness and response actions in the affected regions.
Recent meteorological activity indicates that Tropical Storm Jude began developing on 6 March, affecting Madagascar and then moving toward Mozambique. The heavy rainfall, destructive winds, and dangerous seas have put approximately 780,000 individuals in Nampula and Zambezia provinces at risk. In addition, Malawi’s government is proactively preparing for the storm’s impact.
Ongoing humanitarian efforts focus on improving response capacities across the affected countries. In Malawi, anticipatory action programs are in effect, with humanitarian clusters activated and an Emergency Operations Centre established. Rescue operations are being supported with essential supplies and equipment, including boats for search and rescue operations.
In Madagascar, assistance efforts are being complicated by the recent effects of Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi. Contingency measures are prepared, yet available resources are dwindling due to the prior severe weather incidents. Should Jude make another landfall, additional support will be necessary to address the heightened vulnerabilities in the region.
Mozambique has activated its Anticipatory Action and Early Response framework, which has mobilized funds and resources to assist affected communities. OCHA is coordinating on the ground to map and support areas likely to be severely impacted. Jude’s arrival poses significant challenges for communities still recovering from previous cyclones, underscoring the urgent need for additional humanitarian resources.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Jude has resulted in significant humanitarian needs across Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique, with hundreds displaced and infrastructure damaged. Emergency response efforts are being coordinated, with funds allocated for immediate assistance. The situation remains precarious as communities continue to recover from prior weather events, necessitating ongoing support and preparation for further impact as the cyclone progresses. Prompt action is essential to mitigate further risks and assist vulnerable populations in the region.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
