Last week, Cyclone Idai landed on Mozambique, devastating Beira, the country’s fourth largest city, and flooding areas in Zimbabwe and Malawi. As of today, various reports have cited between approximately 300 and 600 deaths, with the numbers expected to rise as the waters recede. The UN reports that “tens of thousands” have lost their homes.

The most immediate needs are for food and water, blankets, and health and emergency kits to help address crush and trauma injuries. Given the heightened risk for waterborne diseases, there is also a need for cholera kits.

Such disasters are particularly devastating for the poor who often do not have access to the benefits provided by social safety nets. It will be a long road to recovery for many of them. To find out how you can help, start here: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/how-to-help-cyclone-victims-in-mozambique-malawi-and-zimbabwe