(E) Cyclone Idai

• Cyclone Idai is Africa's deadliest tropical cyclone on record. The category 2 storm made landfall in Mozambique in March 2019
• Strong winds, torrential rainfall and powerful storm surges brought widespread destruction in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi
• Primary effects of Cyclone Idai

  • 1300 killed - mostly drowned
  • Over 3 million people affected - many homeless
  • 90% of Beira destroyed by strong winds and storm surge
  • 600 houses destroyed in Zimbabwe
  • Agricultural fields and houses flooded in Malawi - leaving people without food and shelter
• Secondary effects of Cyclone Idai

  • 3000 km^2 flooded by overflowing rivers in Mozambique and Zimbabwe - 700,000 ha of crops destroyed, and roads and bridges washed away
  • Mudslides hampered rescue efforts in Zimbabwe
  • Dams collapsed and 2 HEP (Hydro-electric power) plants damaged in Malawi
  • Lack of sanitation and clean water caused 4,000 cases of cholera in Beira
• Immediate responses to Cyclone Idai

  • Boats and helicopters used to rescue stranded people and drop food
  • International charities, including the Red Cross, supplied emergency provisions
  • The UK government provided food, water and shelter kits
  • The WHO provided 900,000 cholera vaccinations and anti-mosquito nets
  • 140 evacuation centres set up in Mozambique
• Long-term responses to Cyclone Idai

  • Dutch engineers helped restore water supplies in Beira
  • CAFOD rebuilt schools and supported local farmers
  • 90,000 survivors were relocated to 66 safer settlements in Mozambique
  • Early warning system improved