A powerful tropical storm has caused massive destruction in three Southern African countries namely Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe.
Cyclone Idai has led to the death of over 150 people as well as displacing millions across these three countries.
In some areas in these countries thousands have been cut off from roads. Telephones, power and water supplies have also been affected in rural areas.
My thoughts & prayers are with all those affected by Cyclone Idai. Rescue operations are underway & we are grateful for the bravery of the men & women of the Zimbabwean armed forces who, along with our local & international partners, are participating in the urgent rescue efforts
— President of Zimbabwe (@edmnangagwa) March 16, 2019
There are fears in these three countries that the death toll could increase in the coming days with the extent of destruction still being assessed.
The effects of Cyclone IDAI are real. Driving through Chipinge, the situation is grave. River banks are bursting. Bridges have been destroyed. Flash floods are washing away homes. People are in need of help. #CycloneIdaiZW pic.twitter.com/iS99fC5F9g
— Privilege Musvanhiri (@Musvanhiri) March 16, 2019
Massive destruction
Homes, schools, businesses and hospitals have been destroyed by the cyclone with rescue efforts ongoing to support those stranded.
More images from the affected areas as Cyclone Idai continues on its destructive path. @ItalyinZimbabwe @ICRC_SAfrica @IFRCAfrica @BritishRedCross @RedCross @WFP_Zimbabwe @SABCNewsOnline @harumutasa @DFID_UK @ZBCNewsonline @HeraldZimbabwe @kimstambuli @takemorem1 pic.twitter.com/VhIKUCLw4j
— Zimbabwe Red Cross (@ZrcsRed) March 16, 2019
South Africa has said its military has sent in aircraft and 10 medical personnel to help in Mozambique and Malawi.
#Zimbabwe cyclone #CycloneIdai pic.twitter.com/vb3J5vSL1c
— lheart_nash_reignz_official_zw (@lheart_nashzw) March 16, 2019
The cyclone Idai was already expected to make a landfall in these three countries after days of heavy rains led to deadly flooding.
#Toyota never disappoints. Close shave for a #flooded river crossing in #Zimbabwe during #CycloneIdaiZW #landcruiser #CycloneIdai pic.twitter.com/PRL99x8rLS
— AE (@AE17889978) March 17, 2019
An alert was issued but not many expected the extent of destruction currently being witnessed.
Source: Africafeeds.com
