Madagascar Faces Adversities from Tropical Storm Honde: Flash Update No. 1 (04 March 2025)

Tropical Storm Honde has significantly impacted Madagascar, displacing around 21,600 people, resulting in three fatalities and over 69 injuries. The storm caused extensive damage to infrastructure, especially in Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy. Humanitarian partners are actively coordinating emergency responses alongside the government to provide essential aid and support to affected communities.

Tropical Storm Honde recently impacted Madagascar, passing nearly 100 km off the south-western coast. Areas such as Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy have reported significant damage, with three confirmed fatalities, one person missing, and 69 injuries. Approximately 21,600 individuals have been displaced as a result, facing damaged infrastructure, including over 1,900 destroyed homes and numerous schools.

The cyclone, which began to develop in the southern Mozambique Channel and intensified into a storm by February 26, caused extensive flooding in multiple districts and is reportedly moving away from the coast. According to Météo France, Honde is expected to weaken and gradually lose its tropical characteristics after March 6.

In response to the disaster, humanitarian teams are cooperating with the government to provide urgent assistance, including search and rescue operations. Essential supplies, such as food, non-food items, and medical provisions, are being distributed to those affected. A helicopter was deployed to rescue stranded individuals, and additional resources are being coordinated for transport to the hardest-hit areas.

Emergency food supplies have been delivered to the Ampanihy District, with 30 metric tons of rice provided for approximately five days of rations. Partners are also implementing water and sanitation programs alongside health initiatives. Challenges remain due to depleted humanitarian stocks following previous disasters and ongoing calls for additional resources to meet the needs arising from the cyclone season.

Meetings among the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), local authorities, and international NGOs have been organized to enhance coordination and optimize response efforts. A stock inventory of available supplies in affected southwestern and southeastern cities has been shared to facilitate resource allocation for recovery efforts.

In summary, Madagascar is grappling with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Honde, which has caused significant destruction, displacing thousands and claiming lives. Emergency responses are underway, focusing on providing essential supplies and support to affected populations. Coordination among various partners continues to be crucial as they address the immediate needs and prepare for potential future disasters amid an ongoing cyclone season.

Original Source: reliefweb.int