Widespread floods hit Mozambique, leaving at least 28 dead and more than 58 000 affected

Heavy rains affecting Mozambique since December 2019 caused widespread floods, killing at least 28 people, injuring 66 and affecting more than 58 000.

The number of affected people has reached 17 432 in Zambezia, 13 169 in Cabo Delgado, and 6 328 in Sofala– the top three worst-hit provinces– 5 150 in Niassa, 4 915 in Nampula, 4 806 in Gaza, 2 927 in Maputo City, 1 684 in Manica, 1 480 in Tete, and 960 in Maputo.

More than 10 200 houses have been damaged, including 2589 entirely destroyed. 47 schools were also impacted.

Furthermore, several major bridges were hit including the one over the Montepuez river on road N380 in Cabo Delgado, which cut off people in nearby areas from necessary assistance.

On January 22, reports said the Chipembe Dam in Cabo Delgado was at 100 percent capacity.

Leading the emergency response is the National Disaster Management Institute (INGC), which has so far provided assistance to around 10 000 people seeking shelter in Zambezia province. Around 367 tents were also given to Cabo Delgado residents.

On January 23, forecasts said further rain over central and northern provinces is expected in the next 24 hours.

Featured image credit: Canal de Noticias Mundo (stillshot)