Free Report, March 2023 [Devastating Tropical Cyclone Freddy]by Prince Foley | 15-03-2023 18:27 |
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 Introduction: Tropical cyclone Freddy originated in the Indian Ocean moved towards Mozambique Channel before making its landfall in Malawi on 8 March 2023. The cyclone brought heavy rains and strong winds that caused widespread flooding and landslides in several districts of Malawi. The southern region of Malawi was particularly affected, with the districts of Blantyre, Chiradzulu, Mulanje, Chikwawa, Nsanje, and Phalombe among others being the hardest hit. Cyclone Freddy Impact: The floods also destroyed more than 2,290 houses, leaving approximately more than 24,000 people displaced. The floods also damaged roads, bridges, and other infrastructure, making it difficult to access affected areas. According to the Malawi government's disaster management authority, the storm has caused the deaths of about 200 people, with more than 500 others injured. The floods also caused significant damage to crops and livestock, which has affected the food security and livelihoods of the affected communities. Response and Recovery: The Malawi government, with support from local and international organizations and other stakeholders such as concerned citizens, religion groups and local companies have mounted a response effort to provide humanitarian assistance and support to the affected communities. The government and other stakeholders have set up temporary shelters and provided food, water, and medical assistance to those affected by the cyclone. The government has also deployed security personnel from the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) to the affected regions to provide rescue services, security and maintain law and order. The government is also appealing from well wishers to help with assorted items such as food, clothes, water and medicine among other things. Lessons learned: Tropical cyclone Freddy has highlighted the need for improved disaster preparedness and response capacity in Malawi. The government should prioritize investing in disaster risk reduction measures such as early warning systems, flood control infrastructure, and community-based disaster preparedness programs. The government should also invest in social safety net programs to support vulnerable communities affected by natural disasters. Such programs should be designed to provide support for food security, health, and livelihoods during and after natural disasters. There is also need for community sensitization in order to help pelople understand the dangers of settling or cultivating in flood prone areas like downhills and along riverbanks. All in all, let's hold hands and support all those who have been affected with this disaster in these times of distress. NB: The figures in this report are subjected to change as rescue and recovery activities are still in progress. References: "Malawi: Cyclone Freddy Emergency Appeal" (2022) ReliefWeb. Available at: https://reliefweb.int/report/malawi/malawi-cyclone-freddy-emergency-appeal "Malawi: Cyclone Ana (Freddy) - Rapid Assessment Report" (2022) UNOCHA. Available at: https://reliefweb.int/report/malawi/malawi-cyclone-ana-freddy-rapid-assessment-report "Malawi: Tropical Cyclone Ana (Freddy) Situation Report No. 1" (2022) UNOCHA. Available at: https://reliefweb.int/report/malawi/malawi-tropical-cyclone-ana-freddy-situation-report-no-1 |
