Cyclone Leon–Eline

{{Short description|Australian and South-West Indian cyclone in 2000}}

{{Infobox weather event

| name = Intense Tropical Cyclone Leon–Eline

| image = Cyclone Leon-Eline 22 feb 2000 0411Z.jpg

| caption = Leon-Eline at peak intensity during landfall in Mozambique on 22 February

| formed = 1 February 2000

| dissipated = 29 February 2000

| duration = {{Age in weeks and days|year1=2000|month1=02|day1=01|year2=2000|month2=02|day2=29}}

}}{{Infobox weather event/MF

| agency = MFR

| winds = 100

| gusts = 139

| pressure = 930

}}{{Infobox weather event/JTWC

| winds = 115

| pressure =

}}{{Infobox weather event/Effects

| year = 2000

| damages-prefix = >

| damages = 309000000

| fatalities = 114–722{{#tag:ref|In Madagascar, Eline killed at least 64 people, although subsequent Tropical Storm Gloria affected the same region just two weeks later. The death toll for both storms is 205, with 66 confirmed fatalities related to Gloria, resulting in 139 deaths potentially related to Eline. There were only 17 confirmed fatalities in Mozambique, although the death toll from the cyclone and preceding floods was around 700, with 150 deaths before Eline's arrival. Therefore, there are up to 550 deaths related to the storm in that country. Elsewhere, Eline killed 12 people in Zimbabwe and 21 in South Africa.|group="nb"}}

| areas = Madagascar, Southern Africa (mainly Mozambique)

}}{{Infobox weather event/Footer

| season = 1999–2000 Australian region and South-West Indian Ocean cyclone seasons

}}

Intense Tropical Cyclone Leon–Eline was the second longest-lived cyclone in the Indian Ocean, behind Cyclone Freddy, traveling over {{convert|11,000|km|mi|abbr=on}} during its 29-day track through the Indian Ocean, throughout the month of February. The cyclone formed on 1 February 2000, in the Australian basin as Tropical Cyclone Leon, and was renamed Eline after crossing 90° E into the South-West Indian Ocean; there, the Météo-France office in Réunion (MFR) tracked the storm's movement and intensity. Late on 17 February, Eline made landfall near Mahanoro, Madagascar, with 10‑minute winds of {{convert|165|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. The storm rapidly weakened over land, but restrengthened in the Mozambique Channel to reach peak 10‑minute winds of {{convert|185|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, making it an intense tropical cyclone. On 22 February, Eline made landfall about {{convert|80|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of Beira, Mozambique, near peak intensity. Eline quickly weakened over land as it moved across Southern Africa, finally dissipating over eastern Namibia on 29 February.

While moving across much of the Indian Ocean, Eline brought high waves, gusty winds, and rainfall to several islands. When Eline struck Madagascar, the country was in the midst of a cholera epidemic that killed over 1,000 people. Eline directly killed at least 64 people in the country. Tropical Storm Gloria struck Madagascar 13 days later, compounding the damage and making it difficult to discern the individual effects. Damage from Eline was estimated at $9 million (USD),{{#tag:ref|All damage totals are in 2000 United States dollars|group="nb"}} and collectively the two storms killed 205 people and left another 10,000 homeless. In the region around Vatomandry where Eline made landfall, 65% of houses were damaged, 90% of crops were lost, and 75% of health facilities were wrecked.

Before Eline's final landfall, Mozambique's worst floods since 1951 had killed about 150 people. The additional rainfall and flooding from Eline created the country's worst natural disaster in a century, and disrupted ongoing relief efforts. The combined effects destroyed over {{convert|250000|ha|acre|abbr=on}} of crop fields and killed 40,000 cattle. The Limpopo River reached {{convert|15|km|mi|abbr=on}} wide and {{convert|11|m|ft|abbr=on}} above normal in some areas, which isolated the town of Xai-Xai. A dam broke along the river, flooding the town of Chokwe in the middle of the night and trapping several unprepared residents; this accounted for nearly half of the death toll. About 55 people drowned in Sofala Province after rescue helicopters arrived too late to save them. Around 20,000 people in the capital city of Maputo lost their homes. In addition to the floods, strong winds blew away many roofs and some entire houses made of mud. The combined effects of the preceding floods and Eline left about 329,000 people displaced or homeless, killed around 700 people, and caused an estimated $500 million (USD) in damage. The flooding disrupted much of the economic progress Mozambique had made in the 1990s since the end of its civil war.

Elsewhere in Southern Africa, Eline brought strong winds and heavy rainfall when it crossed into eastern Zimbabwe. Rivers overflowed their banks in the country, damaging crops and houses while leaving 15,000 people homeless. The storm killed 12 people in the country. Flooding from the storm extended southward into Swaziland and South Africa. In the latter country, Eline dropped {{convert|503|mm|in|abbr=on}} of rainfall in Levubu over three days, causing the Limpopo River to reach its highest level in 15 years. Officials opened dams along the river to prevent structural damage, which caused higher levels along the river to the east. At least 21 people died in the country, and about 80,000 people were left homeless. Damage in Limpopo Province alone was estimated at $300 million (USD). To the north, Eline dropped about {{convert|90|mm|in|abbr=on}} of rainfall in southern Malawi, while gusty winds caused a power outage in Blantyre. Farther west, rainfall rates of {{convert|50|-|100|mm|in|abbr=on}} were reported in Botswana.

Meteorological history

The origins of Cyclone Leon–Eline were from a surge of energy within the monsoon trough that crossed the equator from the northwest, which spawned a low pressure area on 1 February in the eastern Indian Ocean, about {{convert|250|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of the Indonesian island of Bali. Associated convection, or thunderstorms, was initially sparse due to wind shear in the region. Over the next few days, the low tracked west-southwestward without much development, moving around a large ridge over northwestern Australia. An anticyclone over the system provided outflow, allowing convection to increase despite the wind shear. At 22:00 UTC on 3 February, Australia's Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) {{#tag:ref|The Tropical Cyclone Warning Center in Perth, Australia is a branch of the country's Bureau of Meteorology, which is the official Regional Specialized Meteorological Center for the Australian basin.{{cite report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=2011-09-11|title=Worldwide Tropical Cyclone Centers|access-date=2012-08-27|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/aboutrsmc.shtml}}|group="nb"}} upgraded the tropical low to a Category 1 tropical cyclone on the Australian tropical cyclone scale, estimating 10‑minute sustained winds of {{convert|65|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. At 04:00 UTC the next day, the BoM named the storm Tropical Cyclone Leon. On the same day at 03:00 UTC, the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC){{#tag:ref|The Joint Typhoon Warning Center is a joint United States Navy – United States Air Force task force that issues tropical cyclone warnings for the region.{{cite web|publisher=Joint Typhoon Warning Center|title=Joint Typhoon Warning Center Mission Statement|year=2011|access-date=2012-07-25|url=https://metocph.nmci.navy.mil/jtwc/menu/JTWC_mission.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070726103400/https://metocph.nmci.navy.mil/jtwc/menu/JTWC_mission.html|archive-date=2007-07-26}} |group="nb"}} began issuing advisories on the storm as Tropical Cyclone 11S. Around that time, Leon was located about {{convert|215|km|mi|abbr=on}} south-southeast of Christmas Island, moving west-southwestward. With decreasing wind shear, the convection organized into rainbands, signaling that the storm was strengthening.{{cite report|title=Cyclone Season 1999–2000|url=http://www.meteo.fr/temps/domtom/La_Reunion/webcmrs9.0/anglais/archives/publications/saisons_cycloniques/index19992000.html|work=RSMC La Reunion|publisher=Meteo-France|access-date=2014-07-15}}{{cite report|title=Tropical Cyclone Leon|publisher=Australian Bureau of Meteorology|access-date=2014-07-15|url=http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/history/pdf/leon.pdf}}{{cite journal|page=2|author=Darwin Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre|publisher=Bureau of Meteorology|volume=19|number=2|date=February 2000|title=Darwin Tropical Diagnostic Statement|access-date=2014-07-15|url=http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/ntregion/statements/tropical/dtds-200002.pdf}}{{cite web|title=Monthly Global Tropical Cyclone Summary February 2000|access-date=2014-07-15|url=http://www.australiasevereweather.com/cyclones/2000/summ0002.htm|author=Gary Padgett}}

Early on 5 February, the BoM upgraded Leon to a Category 3 severe tropical cyclone on the Australian scale, estimating 10‑minute winds of {{convert|120|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. At 22:00 UTC that day, the agency estimated an initial peak of {{convert|140|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. On 6 February, the cyclone developed an eye in the center of the convection that was only visible on Special sensor microwave/imager, not on satellite imagery. On the same day, the JTWC upgraded Leon to the equivalent of a minimal hurricane, estimating 1‑minute winds of {{convert|140|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}.{{cite report|author=Kenneth R. Knapp|author2=Michael C. Kruk|author3=David H. Levinson|author4=Howard J. Diamond|author5=Charles J. Neumann|year=2010|work=The International Best Track Archive for Climate Stewardship (IBTrACS): Unifying tropical cyclone best track data|title=2000 Eline:Leon:Leone_Eline (2000032S11115)|publisher=Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society|access-date=2014-07-15|url={{IBTRACS url|id=2000032S11115}} }} A trough passing to the south increased wind shear, causing the storm to weaken. Around that time, Leon passed about {{convert|510|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of the Cocos Islands, while turning more to the west after the ridge strengthened to the south. By 8 February, the circulation was exposed from the rapidly dwindling thunderstorms. At 18:00 UTC that day, Leon crossed 90° E into the south-west Indian Ocean, and as result was renamed Eline by the Mauritius Meteorological Service. By that time, Météo-France (MFR){{#tag:ref|The Météo-France office in Réunion is the official Regional Specialized Meteorological Center for the basin.|group="nb"}} estimated 10‑minute winds of {{convert|65|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}.

File:Leon 2000-02-02 0932Z.png

Over the subsequent few days, wind shear caused the convection to wax and wane over Eline's center, limiting the thunderstorms to the southern periphery. The track shifted more to the west-northwest. On 11 February, Eline had weakened into a minimal tropical storm according to the MFR, about {{convert|1110|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of Diego Garcia, and the JTWC operationally downgraded it to a tropical depression. Later that day, however, a decrease in shear allowed thunderstorms to refire. On 13 February, a weakness in the ridge caused the storm to turn back to the west-southwest. Moving back beneath an anticyclone, conditions became more favorable for strengthening, allowing outflow and a central dense overcast to form, with the beginnings of an eye feature. Eline quickly intensified into a severe tropical storm later the same day. At 00:00 UTC the next day, the JTWC upgraded Eline to the equivalent of a minimal hurricane with 1‑minute winds of {{convert|120|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. The MFR held off upgrading the storm, due to a passing trough increasing wind shear again. On 14 February, Eline passed about {{convert|85|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of St. Brandon, and shortly thereafter resumed its strengthening after the shear dropped. Later that day, the storm bypassed Mauritius about {{convert|180|km|mi|abbr=on}} to the northwest, with the storm's small structure sparing the island from the strongest winds. Early on 16 February, Eline attained tropical cyclone status, with 10‑minute winds of {{convert|120|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, while passing about {{convert|160|km|mi|abbr=on}} northwest of Réunion. This was nine days after it had weakened to tropical storm status the first time.

Upon becoming a tropical cyclone, Eline was still encountering wind shear and dry air. Despite these factors, the eye became better defined and the storm intensified as upper-level conditions improved. The cyclone turned more to the west toward Madagascar, despite a weakness in the ridge to the south. While approaching the country, Eline quickly intensified, reaching 10‑minute winds of {{convert|165|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} by 18:00 UTC on 17 February. Around that time, the cyclone made landfall on eastern Madagascar near Mahanoro. Eline rapidly weakened over land while moving to the west-southwest, and the JTWC downgraded the storm to tropical depression status within 18 hours of moving ashore.

After crossing Madagascar for 26 hours, Eline emerged into the Mozambique Channel near Belo, still maintaining good outflow. With warm waters and a favorable upper-level environment, the depression quickly re-intensified as convection increased. At 12:00 UTC on 19 February, Eline re-attained moderate tropical storm status. While in the central Mozambique Channel, Eline passed about {{convert|35|km|mi|abbr=on}} north of Europa Island, which recorded a barometric pressure of {{convert|992|mbar|inHg|abbr=on}}. Shortly thereafter, the storm turned more to the west-northwest due to a strengthening ridge to the south. A brief increase in wind shear delayed the strengthening trend, but Eline resumed intensifying on 21 February while slowly approaching southeastern Africa. Over a 24‑hour period, the pressure dropped by {{convert|45|mbar|inHg|abbr=on}}, indicative of rapid deepening. During that time, the convection organized into an intense eyewall around a well-defined {{convert|60|km|mi|abbr=on}} eye. Eline had re-attained tropical cyclone status at 12:00 UTC of the same day, and 18 hours later reached intense tropical cyclone status. The MFR estimated peak 10‑minute winds of {{convert|185|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}; in contrast, the JTWC estimated peak 1‑minute winds of {{convert|215|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, the equivalent of a Category 4 tropical cyclone on the Saffir–Simpson hurricane scale (SSHWS). While at peak intensity, Eline made landfall about {{convert|80|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of Beira, Mozambique, where a central pressure of {{convert|989|mbar|inHg|abbr=on}} was recorded. Gusts at landfall were estimated at {{convert|260|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}.

Although the winds rapidly decreased after landfall, the storm maintained a well-defined structure as it crossed from Mozambique into Zimbabwe late on 22 February. Weakening to tropical depression status, Eline crossed Zimbabwe and maintained its circulation, entering Botswana on 24 February. Three days later, the center drifted into eastern Namibia and turned to the south, finally dissipating on 29 February. After the circulation dissipated, the residual system merged with a heat low and an approaching cold front.

=Records and statistics=

Throughout its duration, Leon-Eline lasted 29 days, a record longevity for a storm in the southern Indian Ocean. The track was over {{convert|11,000|km|mi|abbr=on}}, or about 25% of the Earth's circumference. However, Eline was in the south-west Indian Ocean for 21 days, which is the third most on record. It was behind Cyclone Alibera in 1989 and Cyclone Georgette in 1968, the latter of which lasted 24 days in the basin, later surpassed by 2023's Cyclone Freddy, which lasted 36 days in the basin.{{cite web|author=Neal Dorst|author2=Anne-Claire Fontan|series=Records relatifs aux cyclones tropicaux|title=Sujet E6) Which tropical cyclone lasted the longest?|access-date=2014-10-07|url=http://www.meteo.fr/temps/domtom/La_Reunion/webcmrs9.0/anglais/faq/FAQ_Ang_E.html}} The MFR noted that Eline was the strongest cyclone to strike the nation in several decades. The storm was uncommon in its landfall on mainland Africa; only 5% of storms in the basin do so, and most that cross or form in the Mozambique Channel turn to the south. Eline was unusual in maintaining its identity so far inland, aided by increased moisture and enhanced upper-level environmental conditions over southern Africa.

Preparations and impact

File:Cyclone Eline near Madagascar.png

Early in its duration while it was still in the Australian basin, the cyclone produced high waves near Christmas Island, forcing a boat of about 500 refugees to be escorted to port. Later, Eline brought wind gusts of {{convert|76|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} to St. Brandon. On Mauritius, the cyclone produced wind gusts of {{convert|137|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, along with heavy rainfall that peaked at {{convert|405|mm|in|abbr=on}} at Sans Souci. This rainfall was about 70% of the average February precipitation total. After Eline began restrengthening and turned more to the southwest, officials on Réunion declared a red alert, but this was dropped when the cyclone passed the island. Ultimately, the storm brushed the island with gusts of {{convert|101|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} along the coast, and {{convert|187|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} in the mountainous peak of Maïdo. Rainfall was heaviest in the mountainous peaks, reaching {{convert|1500|mm|in|abbr=on}} at Bébourg. Significant wave heights remained below {{convert|3|m|ft|abbr=on}}.

=Madagascar=

Cyclone Eline struck while Madagascar was in the midst of a cholera epidemic that had killed over 1,000 people. When the storm moved ashore in eastern Madagascar, Eline produced strong winds along its path, with gusts estimated at {{convert|250|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} by MFR at landfall. However, the storm blew away weather stations near the coast, which made the true landfall intensity unknown. Farther inland, Ivato International Airport near the capital Antananarivo reported winds of {{convert|100|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, and winds in the capital were likely stronger. Eline also dropped heavy rainfall, with a 24‑hour total of {{convert|131|mm|in|abbr=on}} at Ivato airport. The rains also caused flooding along Madagascar's west coast, which is usually spared from precipitation by mountains.{{Cite web|work=United Nations Children's Fund|date=2000-03-03|title=UNICEF heightens its flood response in stricken Madagascar|access-date=2014-07-20|at=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/unicef-heightens-its-flood-response-stricken-madagascar}}

In Mahanoro, the biggest city near the cyclone's landfall in Madagascar, Eline disrupted power and water supplies while also leaving the town isolated. About 80% of buildings were damaged or destroyed there. In Marolambo, a village in eastern Madagascar, Eline killed six people. Heavy rainfall in the central portion of the nation caused landslides and flooding. Flooding also occurred in the west coast near Belo. The storm blocked portions of at least four highways.{{cite web|work=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|date=2000-02-22|at=ReliefWeb|title=Madagascar - Cyclone Eline OCHA Situation Report No. 1|access-date=2014-07-17|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/madagascar-cyclone-eline-ocha-situation-report-no-1}} Nationwide, the storm left about 10,000 people homeless, with about 1,500 people forced to stay in storm shelters. Damage to public buildings was estimated at $300,000 (2000 USD).{{cite web|title=Southern Africa Floods Fact Sheet #9 (FY 2000)|work=United States Agency for International Development|date=2000-03-07|access-date=2014-07-21|at=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/southern-africa-floods-fact-sheet-9-fy-2000}} Nationwide, Eline killed at least 64 people and affected about a half-million people affected.

Only 13 days after Eline struck the country, Cyclone Gloria also hit northeastern Madagascar, bringing additional damage and flooding. The two storms collectively killed at least 140 people,{{cite web|at=ReliefWeb|date=2000-03-10|access-date=2014-07-23|title=WFP Emergency Report No. 10 of 2000|work=World Food Programme|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/wfp-emergency-report-no-10-2000}} although there was initial uncertainty in the toll due to disrupted communications.{{Cite news|date=2000-03-07|author=Christian Chadefaux|title=Cyclones killed 130 in Madagascar: official estimate|agency=Agence France-Presse|access-date=2014-07-21|at=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/cyclones-killed-130-madagascar-official-estimate}} Floods from the two storm inundated 70% of homes and wrecked 70% of the crops in the districts of Andapa, Sambava, Antalaha, and Vohemar.{{cite web|work=International Federation of Red Cross And Red Crescent Societies|date=2000-03-09|title=Madagascar: Cyclones and Floods Information Bulletin No. 01|at=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-07-22|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/madagascar-cyclones-and-floods-information-bulletin-no-01}} About 12,000 people in 114 villages were isolated.{{cite news|website=ReliefWeb|date=2000-03-10|title=Madagascar-Mozambique: Floods update|publisher=IRIN|access-date=2014-07-22|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/madagascar-mozambique-floods-update}}{{cite news|website=ReliefWeb|date=2000-03-10|title=FAO/GIEWS Special Alert No. 302: Cyclone damage to crops threatens food security in Madagascar|publisher=Food and Agriculture Organization|access-date=2014-07-23|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/faogiews-special-alert-no-302-cyclone-damage-crops-threatens-food-security}} Rice fields were flooded for over a week, and coffee and banana crops had severe losses.{{cite web|website=ReliefWeb|date=2000-03-10|title=Crops destroyed in Madagascar, UNICEF finds|publisher=United Nations Children's Fund|access-date=2014-07-23|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/crops-destroyed-madagascar-unicef-finds}} Collectively, 12,230 people were left without access to clean water.{{cite web|website=ReliefWeb|date=2000-03-09|title=Madagascar - Cyclone Eline and Gloria OCHA Situation Report No. 4|publisher=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|access-date=2014-07-22|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/madagascar-cyclone-eline-and-gloria-ocha-situation-report-no-4}}

=Mozambique=

File:Limpopo.jpg in Mozambique in March 2000]]

Before Eline struck Mozambique, storm warnings and later hurricane warnings were issued on 21 February. Flooding had affected the nation since January, with some areas receiving a year's worth of rainfall in two weeks. Widespread areas were inundated, with about 220,000 people displaced,{{cite news|newspaper=Disaster Relief|date=2000-02-18|title=Tropical storm threatens flood-ravaged Mozambique|access-date=2014-09-01|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/tropical-storm-threatens-flood-ravaged-mozambique}} and about 150 people killed.{{cite news|author=Emelia Sithole|date=2000-02-23|title=Mozambique's Chissano urges post-cyclone aid|agency=Reuters|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-04|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambiques-chissano-urges-post-cyclone-aid}} Eline moved ashore with very powerful winds, although there were no direct observations of the strongest winds. In Beira, the closest major city to the landfall point, winds reached storm force. However, the rainfall from Eline was the most impacting following the preexisting flooding, which were the worst since 1951. The floods were beginning to recede by the time Eline arrived,{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-02-21|access-date=2014-09-03|title=Cyclone reaches Mozambique's southern Inhambane province|publisher=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/cyclone-reaches-mozambiques-southern-inhambane-province}} and by the end of February 2000, the situation was considered the country's worst natural disaster in a century.{{cite web|work=US Fund for UNICEF|date=2000-02-29|access-date=2014-09-08|title=Mozambique floods situation report 29 Feb 2000|publisher=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-floods-situation-report-29-feb-2000}} Flooding continued for days after Eline moved through southern Africa due to waters flowing downstream from neighboring countries. By early March the floods were beginning to recede again, leaving behind a deep layer of mud,{{cite web|work=Médecins Sans Frontières|date=2000-03-04|title=People fleeing Chokwe in case of renewed flooding|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-19|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/people-fleeing-chokwe-case-renewed-flooding}} ponds of contaminated water, and piles of rotten corpses.{{cite news|author=Chris McGreal|newspaper=Mail and Guardian|date=2000-03-07|title=Mozambique: Amid the filth, the first sign of disease|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-19|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-amid-filth-first-sign-disease}}

While Eline moved ashore, high winds knocked over coconut trees, destroying over {{convert|250000|ha|acre|abbr=on}} of crop fields in conjunction with the floods.{{cite web|work=Lutheran World Relief|date=2000-03-03|title=One woman ready to name her baby after the floods; 600 Mozambican families ready to build new lives|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-12|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/one-woman-ready-name-her-baby-after-floods-600-mozambican-families-ready-build-new}} The floods killed 30% of the cows in Gaza Province, and about 40,000 cattle died nationwide, with many chickens and goats also killed.{{Cite web|work=Food and Agriculture Organization|date=2000-03-03|title=FAO GIEWS Special Alert No. 301: Crops wiped out by floods in southern Mozambique and affected population likely to depend on food assistance through 2000|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-17|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/fao-giews-special-alert-no-301-crops-wiped-out-floods-southern-mozambique-and}} Many schools were closed after the storm, including 308 due to damage and others that housed storm victims.{{Cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-03-23|title=Southern African ministers call for meeting on disaster management|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-22|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/southern-african-ministers-call-meeting-disaster-management}} The storm knocked over telegraph power lines and caused widespread power and water outages from Inhambane to Beira, while also disrupting ongoing relief efforts.{{Cite news|author=Cynthia Long|date=2000-02-23|title=Mozambique to appeal for aid in wake of Cyclone Eline|work=Disaster Relief|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-floods-ocha-situation-report-no-9}} The cities of Chokwe, Chibuto, and Xai Xai all had damage to their water systems.{{Cite web|work=Action by Churches Together International|date=2000-03-08|title=Mozambique Floods: Returning to ruined homes...|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-20|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-floods-returning-ruined-homes}}

After the storm knocked over 90 power poles, about two-thirds of Beira was without power and water,{{cite report|work=Médecins Sans Frontières|date=2000-02-23|title=MSF: Mozambique, hit by the worst floods in 30 years|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/msf-mozambique-hit-worst-floods-30-years}} and two people were killed due to downed power lines.{{cite report|work=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|date=2000-02-23|title=International Appeal of the Government of Mozambique for Emergency Relief and Initial Rehabilitation|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-04|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/international-appeal-government-mozambique-emergency-relief-and-initial}} Flooding damaged the World Food Program warehouse in the city.{{cite report|work=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|date=2000-02-24|title=Mozambique - Floods OCHA Situation Report No. 9|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-04|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/international-appeal-government-mozambique-emergency-relief-and-initial}} Also in Beira, the combination of strong winds and waves sank five ships in the harbor, including one at the entrance; this halted port traffic for about two weeks. Floods submerged the primary highway connecting the north and south of the country,{{cite news|agency=Xinhua|date=2000-02-22|title=Cyclone Eline Hits Central Mozambique|access-date=2014-09-03|publisher=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/cyclone-eline-hits-central-mozambique}} and damaged several other roads and rail lines, halting the region's economy by preventing movement of goods. About {{convert|4|km|mi|abbr=on}} of the rail line between Maputo and Zimbabwe was under water.{{cite web|work=IRIN|date=2000-03-06|title=Mozambique: IRIN Focus on reconstruction|access-date=2014-09-29|publisher=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-irin-focus-reconstruction}} The swollen Limpopo River isolated the town of Xai-Xai after all connecting roads and the airport were inundated, and the bridge connecting the rest of the region to the south was damaged. Water levels along the river reached as high as {{convert|11|m|ft|abbr=on}} above normal in some areas, as well as {{convert|15|km|mi|abbr=on}} wide,{{cite web|work=Médecins Sans Frontières|date=2000-03-01|title=Mozambique: Chokwe flood victims face dam-burst threat|access-date=2014-09-09|publisher=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-chokwe-flood-victims-face-dam-burst-threat}} which broke the record for highest crest by {{convert|3|m|ft|abbr=on}}.{{cite book|title=Mozambique & the Great Flood of 2000|publisher=Indianan University Press|year=2001|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HWqjGAzoALYC&pg=PR16|author=Frances Christie and Joseph Halon|isbn=0-253-33978-2|page=16}} A dam broke along the river, flooding the town of Chokwe in the middle of the night and trapping several unprepared residents.{{cite web|work=World Relief|date=2000-02-27|title=Dam breaks, flooding Mozambican town; World Relief staff mounts rescue operation|access-date=2014-09-06|publisher=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/dam-breaks-flooding-mozambican-town-world-relief-staff-mounts-rescue-operation}} Flooding there surpassed the previous water depth record by {{convert|2|m|ft|abbr=on}}, set in 1977, thus inundating the town up to ceiling of one story buildings. In the city of Inhambane, the flooded Save River swept away several houses. Along the river, 50,000 people were unaccounted for as of March 1, many of whom were washed away.{{cite news|agency=Mail and Guardian|date=2000-03-01|publisher=ReliefWeb|title=Mozambique: Fate of flood victims hangs on meagre aid|access-date=2014-09-09|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-fate-flood-victims-hangs-meagre-aid}} In nearby Nova Mambone, thousands of people became homeless due to storm flooding, killing at least ten people.{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-02-04|publisher=ReliefWeb|title=Cyclone Kills 17 People in Mozambique|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/cyclone-kills-17-people-mozambique}} About 55 people drowned in Sofala Province after rescue helicopters arrived too late to save them.{{cite web|work=World Vision|date=2000-03-01|title=Floodwaters continue to rise in Mozambique|access-date=2014-09-09|publisher=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/floodwaters-continue-rise-mozambique}} Around 20,000 people in the capital city of Maputo lost their homes.

In addition to the floods, strong winds blew away many roofs and some entire houses made of mud,{{cite news|newspaper=Mail and Guardian|date=2000-02-23|title=250km/h wind hits flooded Mozambique|author=Chris McGreal|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-04|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/250kmh-wind-hits-flooded-mozambique}} leaving thousands of people homeless. The combined effects of the preceding floods and Eline left about 463,000 people displaced or homeless, including 46,000 children five years old or younger.{{cite web|work=Save the Children|date=2000-03-07|title=Mozambique Emergency Bulletin 3: 07 Mar 2000|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-19|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-emergency-bulletin-3-07-mar-2000}} Overall, the preceding floods and Eline caused about 700 deaths, half of whom in Chokwe.{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-04-03|title=Mozambique's flood death toll rises to nearly 700|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-29|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambiques-flood-death-toll-rises-nearly-700}} with damage estimated at $500 million (2000 USD). At least 17 people died directly due to Eline, although many bodies were washed away and unable to be counted. The cyclone and the floods disrupted much of the economic progress Mozambique had made in the 1990s since the end of its civil war.{{cite web|work=Trócaire|date=2000-02-24|title=Trocaire launches appeal for Mozambique flood victims|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/trocaire-launches-appeal-mozambique-flood-victims}}

=Elsewhere in mainland Africa=

Image:mankonkoni bridge.jpg, Zimbabwe, destroyed by Cyclone Eline]]

The MFR issued a gale warning for Zimbabwe in anticipation of strong winds well inland. However, the Zimbabwe government did not issue any storm warnings until the storm moved over the country. Due to Eline maintaining a well-defined structure, it brought strong winds and heavy rainfall when it crossed into eastern Zimbabwe. The heavy rains caused rivers to overflow their banks. Officials opened flood gates along several dams to maintain their integrity, which increased flooding downstream, including in Mozambique. However, eight dams that were used for irrigation purposes were destroyed. The storm destroyed over 3,800 homes in the eastern portion of the country while killing 17,000 heads of livestock.{{cite web|work=Christian Aid|date=2000-03-08|title=Latest update on floods in Southern Africa 08 March 2000|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-19|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/latest-update-floods-southern-africa-08-march-2000}} Flooding also washed away roads, bridges, and some power lines. Mutare, the country's third largest city, lost power during Eline's passage.{{cite web|work=World Health Organization|date=2000-02-24|title=Mozambique Government launches an international appeal|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-government-launches-international-appeal}} Overall the storm killed 12 people in the country.

Flooding from the storm extended southward into Swaziland and South Africa. In the latter country, Eline dropped {{convert|503|mm|in|abbr=on}} of rainfall in Levubu over three days, causing the Limpopo River to reach its highest level in 15 years. In Limpopo Province, a station recorded {{convert|284|mm|in|abbr=on}} of rainfall in just 24 hours.{{cite news|newspaper=Mail and Guardian|date=2000-02-24|title=Another cyclone heads for reeling Moz|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/another-cyclone-heads-reeling-moz}} Officials opened dams along the Limpopo River to prevent structural damage, which caused higher levels along the river to the east.{{cite news|newspaper=Mail and Guardian|date=2000-02-24|title=300 000 homeless in Mozambique|author=Chris McGreal|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/300-000-homeless-mozambique}} However, 16 dams failed in the country, causing further damage to irrigation systems. The floodwaters isolated the town of Louis Trichardt after N1 road was covered, and most border crossings were closed. The floods covered roads and caused several houses to collapse, hospitalizing 12 people in Thohoyandou. Eline also damaged crops in the country, namely pulses, maize, and other vegetables. At least 21 people died in the country,{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-02-28|title=South Africa braces for influx of flood-affected refugees|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/south-africa-braces-influx-flood-affected-refugees}} and about 80,000 people were left homeless, forcing many people into churches and schools.{{cite web|work=Christian Aid|date=2000-02-28|title=Latest update on flood alert in southern Africa|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/latest-update-flood-alert-southern-africa}} Damage in Limpopo Province alone was estimated at $300 million (USD),{{cite news|agency=Pan African News Agency|date=2000-02-28|title=Pretoria Ready For Rescue Operations In Mozambique|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/pretoria-ready-rescue-operations-mozambique}} with crop damage estimated at $11 million. Flooding began receding by the end of February.

To the north, Eline dropped about {{convert|90|mm|in|abbr=on}} of rainfall in southern Malawi. The storm's gusty winds wrecked houses and knocked over trees, causing power outages in Blantyre.{{cite news|newspaper=Pan African News Agency|date=2000-02-26|title=Malawi Helicopters Assist Mozambican|author=Raphael Tenthani|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/malawi-helicopters-assist-mozambican-flood-victims}} Farther west, rainfall rates of {{convert|50|-|100|mm|in|abbr=on}} were also reported in Botswana. In Namibia, Eline's rainfall contributed to the third wettest summer in 50 years, as well as the wettest since 1976. Several locations in the southern portion of the country reported daily rainfall rates of {{convert|60|mm|in|abbr=on}}.{{cite journal|journal=Weather and Forecasting|date=October 2004|title=Tropical Cyclone Eline and Its Unusual Penetration and Impacts over the Southern African Mainland|author1=C. J. C. Reason|author2=A. Keibel|volume=19|issue=5|doi=10.1175/1520-0434(2004)019<0789:TCEAIU>2.0.CO;2|pages=789–805|bibcode = 2004WtFor..19..789R|hdl=11427/35031 |s2cid=123355539 |hdl-access=free}}

Aftermath

File:An MH-53M Pave Low IV helicopter approaches the refueling basket of an MC-130P Combat Shadow.jpg

Immediately after Eline struck Madagascar, the government began distributing relief items, such as rice, tents, and sheets. On 21 February, survey flights helped indicate the extent of damage across the nation. Supplies were distributed by road from Antananarivo to the worst affected areas, with helicopters dropping off aid to isolated communities. After receiving request from the Malagasy government, UNICEF flew 15 tons of supplies from Copenhagen, such as medicine, 10.5 tons of food, and equipment to help coordinate relief work. The agency also transported thousands of blankets and water purification tablets from Antananarivo. However, UNICEF faced difficulties in distributing the supplies.{{Cite news|date=2000-03-07|title=Madagascar faces Mozambique-style floods crisis, UN warns|agency=Agence France-Presse|access-date=2014-07-21|publisher=ReliefWeb|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/madagascar-faces-mozambique-style-floods-crisis-un-warns}} The government of France sent two helicopters with teams of doctors to Madagascar,{{cite web|title=France: Assistance aux populations du Mozambique|date=2000-03-03|work=Government of France|access-date=2014-07-21|language=fr|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/france-assistance-aux-populations-du-mozambique|publisher=ReliefWeb}} and Médecins Sans Frontières sent about 35 tons of supplies, such as medicine, water purifying devices, and food.{{cite web|work=Médecins Sans Frontières|date=2000-03-09|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-07-22|title=Madagascar's disaster stricken population|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/madagascars-disaster-stricken-population}} The World Food Programme flew about 400 tons of food to affected residents across the country, including 25 tons to Mahanoro.{{cite web|work=World Food Programme|date=2000-03-08|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-07-22|title=Mozambique floods: Update 08 Mar 2000|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/botswana/mozambique-floods-update-08-mar-2000}} Due to the combined impacts of Eline and Gloria, the government of Madagascar requested for international assistance on March 7, which was coordinated through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.{{cite web|work=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=2000-03-07|title=Madagascar - Cyclone Eline and Gloria OCHA Situation Report No. 2|access-date=2014-07-22|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/madagascar-cyclone-eline-and-gloria-ocha-situation-report-no-2}} In response, the government of the United Kingdom donated £1.3 million (US$1.9 million) to Madagascar.{{cite web|work=Department for International Development|date=2000-03-08|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-07-22|title=Britain sends help as floods hit Madagascar|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/britain-sends-help-floods-hit-madagascar}} The Organisation of African Unity donated $200,000 to Madagascar on March 10.{{cite news|agency=Pan Africa News Agency|date=2000-03-10|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-07-23|title=OAU Donates 200,000 Dollars To Madagascar|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/madagascar/oau-donates-200000-dollars-madagascar}} In addition to Cyclone Gloria striking the country in March, Cyclone Hudah hit eastern Madagascar in early April, causing additional deaths and damage.

The government of Zimbabwe declared a state of emergency in three provinces. Nearby Botswana donated 15 million litres of fuel to the country to help with their recovery.{{cite news|agency=Pan African News Agency|date=2000-02-29|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-08|title=Botswana Comes To The Rescue Of Zimbabwe, Mozambique|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/botswana-comes-rescue-zimbabwe-mozambique}} Although Botswana was affected by the floods, their government was able to provide food and relief to the storm victims.{{cite web|work=World Food Programme|date=2000-03-03|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-12|title=WFP Emergency Report No. 09 of 2000|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/wfp-emergency-report-no-09-2000}} In South Africa, families were forced to keep corpses in their houses due to the ongoing flooding. The country's government authorized R7.1 million (ZAR, US$1.1 million) to pay for emergency assistance. Limpopo Province was declared a disaster area. The South African government issued a warning on March 1, stating that flood refugees from Mozambique would be deported if they entered illegally.{{cite web|work=IRIN|date=2000-03-01|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-09|title=South Africa-Mozambique: Refugees will be sent back|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/south-africa-mozambique-refugees-will-be-sent-back}} The country of Australia donated $250,000 to assist relief work in both Zimbabwe and South Africa.{{cite web|work=Australian Agency for International Development|date=2000-03-04|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-18|title=Australian Assistance for Mozambique Floods|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/australian-assistance-mozambique-floods-0}}

=Mozambique=

{{quote box |width=30em | bgcolor=#ACE1AF |align=right|quote="You know, it may sound ungrateful, but I think (the aid) came too late. We could have saved some more lives if we had this kind of support from the beginning."

|source=— Graça Machel, Mozambique's former first lady via CNN{{cite news|agency=Reuters|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-19|date=2000-03-07|title=Too much, Too late: Aid now pours into Mozambique|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/too-much-too-late-aid-now-pours-mozambique}}

}}

By the time Eline struck Mozambique, there was already incoming assistance from the international community, responding to the earlier flooding. Mozambique's president at the time, Joaquim Chissano, requested for additional aid after the storm struck, asking for $65 million for both reconstruction and emergency aid,{{cite web|work=Government of the Netherlands|date=2000-02-24|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-04|title=The Netherlands gives 7 million guilders in aid to Mozambique|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/netherlands-gives-7-million-guilders-aid-mozambique}} and later increasing the request to $160 million.{{cite web|work=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-22|date=2000-03-22|title=Mozambique - Floods OCHA Situation Report No. 20|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-floods-ocha-situation-report-no-20}} By the end of February 2000, various countries had pledged $13.5 million to Mozambique, well short of the required needs,{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-02-29|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-08|title=Donors pledge 13.5m dollars to UN agencies for Mozambique|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/donors-pledge-135m-dollars-un-agencies-mozambique}} but that rose to nearly $119 million by March 17.{{cite web|work=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|date=2000-03-17|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-22|title=Mozambique: Ross Mountain praised media's role and international solidarity floods|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-ross-mountain-praised-medias-role-and-international-solidarity}} By March 4, 39.6 tons of various relief goods reached the country, to be distributed from the towns of Bilene and Magul.{{cite news|agency=Pan African News Agency|date=2000-03-04|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-18|title=Mozambique Shudders Over Another Cyclone|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-shudders-over-another-cyclone}} The supplies nearly overwhelmed the small airport at Maputo, as lack of distribution caused food to decay in the sun.

The Mozambique government worked to evacuate residents in newly flooded areas using boats, and set up 121 camps for evacuees. By early March, there were 35,000 people at camps in Chiaquelane, and another 10,000 in Macia. However, the country had a limited capacity for widespread rescues due to insufficient helicopters.{{cite report|work=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|date=2000-02-27|title=Mozambique - Floods OCHA Situation Report No. 10|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-floods-ocha-situation-report-no-10}} In some locations, the floodwaters were so strong that boats were unable to operate search and rescue missions.{{cite web|work=IRIN|date=2000-02-29|title=Southern Africa: IRIN News Briefs, 29 February|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-08|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/southern-africa-irin-news-briefs-29-february}} Residents left homeless by the storm were forced to stay in churches and schools, although some residents in the country's capital, Maputo, provided a spare bedroom. Citizens in the city also provided clothing to those who lost their homes in the flood.{{cite web|work=Tearfund|date=2000-02-28|title=Mozambique churches launch emergency aid effort|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-churches-launch-emergency-aid-effort}} About 2,000 residents from the flooded town of Chokwe walked {{convert|40|km|mi|abbr=on}} to receive shelter in Macie.{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-02-28|title=Heroic helicopter pilots pluck Mozambicans to safety|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/heroic-helicopter-pilots-pluck-mozambicans-safety}} Following the storm, the residual floodwaters contributed to outbreaks of malaria and cholera,{{cite web|work=Concern Worldwide|date=2000-03-01|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-09|title=Mozambique Floods: Concern expands emergency relief operation|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-floods-concern-expands-emergency-relief-operation-0}} with malaria infections at four times the usual rate killing at least 11 people.{{cite news|newspaper=Mail and Guardian|date=2000-03-02|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-11|title=100 000 still trapped by waters and one million homeless|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/100-000-still-trapped-waters-and-one-million-homeless}}{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-03-28|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-22|title=Malaria kills 11 Mozambican flood survivors|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/malaria-kills-11-mozambican-flood-survivors}} Areas in southern Mozambique also lost access to clean water, furthering dehydration and illnesses.{{cite news|newspaper=Mail and Guardian|date=2000-03-07|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-19|title=Corpses in water deadly Moz hazard|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/corpses-water-deadly-moz-hazard}} In addition, the United Nations Mine Action Service expressed concern that the floods shifted the locations of landmines left over from the nation's civil war.{{cite web|work=United Nations Department of Public Information|date=2000-03-01|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-09|title=Mozambique: WFP to take food to families marooned on rooftops|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-wfp-take-food-families-marooned-rooftops}} Later, the remnants of Cyclone Gloria halted relief work due to heavy rainfall.

Soon after the storm struck, CARE operated airlifts of food to flooded areas.{{cite web|work=CARE|date=2000-02-24|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|title=CARE helps deliver food to stranded communities in Mozambique assessment is being conducted to determine extent of needs|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/care-helps-deliver-food-stranded-communities-mozambique-assessment-being-conducted}} The World Food Programme approved $2 million to help airlifting 53,000 metric tons of food.{{cite web|work=United Nations Department of Public Information|date=2000-02-28|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|title=UN steps up relief efforts in response to further flooding in Mozambique|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/un-steps-relief-efforts-response-further-flooding-mozambique}}{{cite web|work=World Food Programme|date=2000-03-10|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-22|title=WFP Emergency Report No. 10 of 2000|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/wfp-emergency-report-no-10-2000}} A fleet of 29 helicopters had rescued 14,204 people by March 7 as well as operating airlifting missions.{{cite web|work=United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs|date=2000-03-03|title=Mozambique - Floods OCHA Situation Report No. 13|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-18|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-floods-ocha-situation-report-no-13}} This included 12 planes and helicopters from South Africa,{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-02-29|title=More South African aircraft sent to aid flooded Mozambique|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-08|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/more-south-african-aircraft-sent-aid-flooded-mozambique}} six helicopters with crews along with 100 motorboats from the United Kingdom,{{cite web|work=IRIN|date=2000-03-03|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-12|title=Mozambique: Demand for more disaster assistance|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-demand-more-disaster-assistance}} ten helicopters from Germany, and two from Malawi.{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-03-02|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-12|title=Germany boosts Mozambique aid, Italian MPS want intervention|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/germany-boosts-mozambique-aid-italian-mps-want-intervention}} Many residents in flooded areas initially had to hold onto trees and roofs due to lack of helicopters,{{cite web|work=Disaster Relief|author=Cynthia Long|date=2000-02-29|title=Mozambique asks world for more aid|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-06|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-asks-world-more-aid}}{{cite news|agency=Reuters|author=Emelia Sithole|date=2000-02-29|title=Mozambique Airlift Resumes; President Appeals|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-08|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-airlift-resumes-president-appeals}} with 100,000 people needing rescue as of March 1.{{cite web|work=Lutheran World Relief|date=2000-03-01|title=100,000 await rescue in Mozambique - on church roofs and bridges|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-09|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/100000-await-rescue-mozambique-church-roofs-and-bridges}} After the floodwaters receded, the need for rescue diminished, allowing families to return home, although helicopters were still required to airlift relief goods. Emergency road repairs allowed supplies to be delivered by road in some areas by March 5.{{cite news|author=Susan Njanji|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-03-05|title=Immediate risks now facing Mozambique are disease and hunger|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-19|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/immediate-risks-now-facing-mozambique-are-disease-and-hunger}} The United States sent a crew of 700 soldiers in what became Task Force Atlas Response, a $37 million operation to coordinate disaster relief, rebuild roads, deliver crop seed, and drop off aid.{{cite news|author=Jim Garamone|work=American Forces Press Service|date=2000-03-27|access-date=2014-09-12|title=U.S. Military Relief Effort in Mozambique Winds Down|url=https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/id/44985/}} This was ordered by U.S. President Bill Clinton on March 2 after criticism that the international assistance was insufficient.{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-03-02|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-12|title=Pentagon mobilizes helicopters, aircraft for Mozambique deployment|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/pentagon-mobilizes-helicopters-aircraft-mozambique-deployment}} The Save the Children organization helped reunited separated children from their families, while World Relief flew seeds and tools to help 26,260 farmers regrow their damaged crops.{{cite web|work=World Relief|date=2000-03-23|title=World Relief begins massive seeds and tool distribution program in Mozambique|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-22|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/world-relief-begins-massive-seeds-and-tool-distribution-program-mozambique}} The United Kingdom assisted by canceling the country's $150 million debt earlier than scheduled, and urged other nations to follow suit;{{cite web|work=IRIN|date=2000-02-29|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-08|title=Mozambique: Britain cancels debt in response to floods|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-britain-cancels-debt-response-floods}} Italy canceled its $500 million debt in March.{{cite news|agency=Agence France-Presse|date=2000-03-02|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-08|title=Italy plans to cancel 500 mln dlrs of Mozambique's debt|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/italy-plans-cancel-500-mln-dlrs-mozambiques-debt}} On 24 February, the World Bank provided $2.5 million to rebuild roads, and later provided an additional $15 million.{{cite web|work=World Bank|date=2000-03-03|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-12|title=World Bank steps up assistance to Mozambique|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/world-bank-steps-assistance-mozambique}} The same agency delayed debt payments for one year. Portugal and Spain canceled $150 million and $20 million worth of debt, respectively. Through the Jubilee 2000, most wealthy nations postponed debt payments for one year on March 16.{{cite web|work=IRIN|date=2000-03-16|publisher=ReliefWeb|access-date=2014-09-22|title=Mozambique: Debt payments suspended|url=http://reliefweb.int/report/mozambique/mozambique-debt-payments-suspended}}