As of yet, the extent of human suffering is not known. The total population of the flood affected areas is being verified and the rescue efforts of survivors is ongoing. Given the size of the flooded area we do expect that the death toll will increase significantly. Damage caused by the cyclone is making it hard to assess the level of devastation and some affected areas are still inaccessible. On 16 March, a dam burst on the outskirts of Beira leaving thousands trapped.

The Mozambique Red Cross, supported by IFRC, is on-site assessing damage, treating water to make it safe and drinkable, and getting aid out to people. Malawi Red Cross are undertaking search and rescue operations, and building pit latrines and wash facilities in temporary camps. Zimbabwe Red Cross are distributing aid to affected areas. British Red Cross is providing 2,000 tarpaulins, 3,000 mosquito nets and 3,000 blankets from our regional warehouse to the Zimbabwe Red Cross.