Cyclone Idai: Mozambique counting losses

Mozambique and other countries in Southern Africa including Eastern Zimbabwe are counting losses after a deadly cyclone that has caused flooding in vast stretches of land. Roads and dams have been destroyed while victims in the affected area have been cut off from accessing help.

More than 1.5 million have been affected by the cyclone Idai with the death toll estimated to be over 1,000. Mozambique’s fourth largest city is the most affected with 90 percent of its area believed to be submerged in water.

According to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, 90 percent of the city has been destroyed by the flood.

The president of Mozambique, Filipe Nyusi said that it is a real disaster of great proportions while adding that the death toll could rise to more than 1,000.

Late on Thursday the storm hit Beira and moved inland into Malawi and Mozambique. Hundreds of houses in Beira were seen surrounded by water while there was widespread damage to homes, schools, and hospitals according to reports from aid officials.
Electricity and telephone services were also cut off in many areas.

Mr. Euloge Ishimwe, a Red Cross spokesman said that the organization’s rescue workers had reached Beira on Thursday.

While speaking on state radio, the president said that overflowing Rivers had submerged villages and isolated communities after flying by helicopter over Beira and seeing bodies floating.

There were also reported deaths in Malawi after flash floods that preceded the cyclone. The Eastern part of Zimbabwe was also affected by the violent weather as a tropical storm with heavy rain and heavy winds caused damages in the area.

admin

See Full Bio