Radio Islam International – 2019/03/27

Cyclone-ravaged Mozambique faces a “second disaster” from cholera and other diseases, officials have warned, as the United Nations launched an urgent aid appeal for an estimated 1.8 million people affected by storm winds and flash floods. 

Speaking to reporters Antonio Guterres, the UN secretary-general, described Cyclone Idai which slammed into Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi on March 14 as “one of the worst weather-related catastrophes in the history of Africa”.

Mozambican authorities, cited by news agency’s, put the death toll at 468.

At least 259 died in Zimbabwe, while another 56 died in Malawi. Officials said these figures were “very preliminary” with more bodies expected to be found as floodwaters drain away.