Response to flooding in Southern Africa - Malawi

On 14 March, tropical cyclone Idai of category 4 strength hit the central coastline Sofala, Zambézia and Inhambane provinces, bringing devastating damage to the port town of Beira. Initial reports suggest that 90% of Beira has been destroyed, with over 1000 people to be dead. The cyclone went on to wreak destruction on Chimamani district (population 30,000) in Manicaland province in Zimbabwe, which remains cut off from road contact. On the 4 March, the depression which caused Cyclone Idai hit the lower Shire River districts of Chikwawa and Nsanje in southern Malawi, causing severe flooding. Overall MSF is currently mounting various responses in each of the three countries, where we already have long standing projects. As of 17 March: In Malawi, an MSF emergency team is supporting Makhanga health centre and surrounds with primary healthcare and water, sanitation and hygiene activities. In Zimbabwe, MSF is currently trying to gain access to Chimanimani, which remains cut off due to broken road networks. In Beira Mozambique, an MSF emergency team is currently assessing the situation to define further the needs.

MSFSTO30128

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