CNN reported today that Cyclone Freddy is breaking records for the duration and strength of tropical storms in the southern hemisphere. Al Jazeera says police in Malawi have reported 11 deaths around the city of Blantyre. [Edit: The death toll has now exceeded 60 – 18:00 GMT – 13 March 2023)
Freddy is the 3rd extreme cyclone to pummel Malawi in the past 5 years, since Cyclone Idai (2019) and Cyclone Ana (2022) caused widespread flooding, destruction of homes and loss of life.
Earlier today, we received reports of three families connected to the work at Saidi whose homes had been seriously affected by the storm. This afternoon, I received word from Harold that he was housing several local families in his home, in spite of the fact that part of the retaining wall recently built at his own home had been washed away.
Harold said, “I have never seen rain like this“.
The Trustees will keep the situation under review over the next few days, and will respond with help as appropriate, and as the Lord provides.
