Tropical storm “Filipo” affects nearly 3,000 people and destroys 14 health facilities in Mozambique

Seven people were injured, and 2,780, equivalent to 577 families, were affected by tropical storm Filipo in southern Inhambane province in Mozambique, according to the preliminary report issued by the National Institute of Disaster Management (INGD).

These numbers are expected to rise, given the extensive destruction caused by strong winds and heavy rains across the region, including the capital Maputo, where some of the most densely populated districts are now flooded.

The INGD reports that the storm partially destroyed 510 houses, while 12 were completely destroyed. Access to healthcare in the affected district is limited, as 14 health facilities were destroyed, as well as education being impacted due to the collapse of 6 schools and 30 classrooms.

Currently, authorities have established three accommodation centers, which are housing 14 families. A multisectoral team has been deployed to assess the situation on the ground, where houses are submerged, roads are cut off, and trees have fallen.

“World Vision has prepositioned stock composed of shelter kits, mosquito nets, water purifiers, jerrycans in Gaza province, about 400 Km from the epicenter and is ready to move its stock to the location as quickly as possible, if required” said Angelo Pontes, World Vision Mozambique, Humanitarian Emergency Affairs Manager

World Vision Mozambique is concerned about the conditions of the most vulnerable children and is calling on the government, local Disaster Risk Management committees, and humanitarian organizations to provide appropriate assistance to children, including those with disabilities. World Vision advocates for age- and gender-sensitive assistance.