Mozambique has experienced severe destruction from Tropical Cyclones Chido, Dikeledi, and Jude, affecting hundreds of thousands. Cyclone Chido impacted over 453,000 individuals, with extensive damage in Cabo Delgado. Cyclone Dikeledi affected 283,334 people in Nampula, while Cyclone Jude caused significant flooding and infrastructure damage across multiple provinces. As of March 2025, nearly 390,000 individuals were affected by these storms, necessitating urgent humanitarian assistance.
In Mozambique, the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclones Chido, Dikeledi, and Jude has severely impacted communities throughout the region. Cyclone Chido made landfall on December 15, 2024, resulting in torrential rainfall of over 250mm and winds up to 120km/h. By December 24, the National Institute for Natural Disasters (INGD) reported 453,971 affected individuals, 120 fatalities, and substantial destruction of housing and infrastructure, such as schools and health centers.
Cabo Delgado Province, especially the districts of Mecufi, Metuge, Chiure, and the capital Pemba, faced significant devastation, impacting approximately 272,000 people. A multi-agency assessment mission conducted on December 18 revealed near-total destruction in Mecufi, where almost all homes were lost. The need for a Flash Appeal was evident given the magnitude of the disaster’s effects.
Following Chido, Cyclone Dikeledi struck on January 13, 2025, bringing severe weather to Nampula Province. It resulted in precipitation of up to 247mm and wind speeds reaching 150km/h. By January 27, 283,334 individuals were reported affected, including a large proportion of children and those with disabilities. Significant infrastructure damage was recorded, with estimates of over 80,000 houses impacted, along with schools, health facilities, and agricultural land.
Cyclone Jude followed on March 10, 2025, with winds of up to 120km/h. It caused flooding across nine provinces, affecting access to critical road networks and contributing to significant outages in power and telecommunications. The early activation of the Mozambique Anticipatory Action Framework allowed rapid response capabilities, providing essential support prior to the storm.
As of March 19, 2025, the total number of affected individuals stood at 390,000, alongside reports of 16 fatalities. Extensive infrastructure damage included 88,000 houses, health units, schools, bridges, and water systems. Flooding was particularly severe in Monapo District, with over 1 million hectares inundated and the ongoing cholera outbreak exacerbated by damaged WASH facilities. Assessments across seven districts were finalized by mid-March to address the multifaceted needs resulting from these cyclones.
The impact of Tropical Cyclones Chido, Dikeledi, and Jude in Mozambique has led to widespread destruction and urgent humanitarian needs. The ongoing assessments highlight rising casualty figures and substantial infrastructure damage. Immediate response efforts through funding and collaboration are vital to address the escalating crises in affected communities and mitigate further public health risks, particularly concerning water and sanitation. Continued emphasis on support and recovery is essential to aid the vulnerable population affected by these natural disasters.
Original Source: www.unocha.org
