Madagascar: Update on Tropical Cyclone Honde’s Impact and Response

Tropical Cyclone Honde struck Madagascar on March 2, affecting the south-western regions, resulting in three fatalities and displacing approximately 21,600 people. The cyclone caused severe damage to infrastructure, with many homes and schools impacted. Humanitarian efforts are underway, with ongoing distribution of food, sanitation supplies, and rescue operations. Coordination among authorities is crucial for addressing the needs of affected populations.

On March 2, 2025, Tropical Cyclone Honde impacted Madagascar, particularly affecting the south-western coastal regions including Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy. The cyclone’s effects resulted in at least three fatalities, with one recorded missing and 69 individuals injured. In total, approximately 21,600 people have been displaced due to the cyclone’s impact, leading to significant challenges in accommodation and access to basic services.

Infrastructure damage has been extensive, with over 7,200 homes experiencing flooding, and some reports indicating that 1,924 houses were completely destroyed. Schools have also suffered damage, with many classrooms rendered unusable, thereby jeopardizing educational continuity for affected children. The cyclone has since moved away from the mainland, and forecasts suggest that it will gradually weaken over the coming days.

In response to this natural disaster, humanitarian organizations are collaborating with the government to facilitate rescue efforts and provide essential supplies. Food and non-food items, water and sanitation supplies, and hygiene kits are being distributed, particularly in the hinterlands where access remains challenging. Notably, a helicopter was deployed to rescue individuals stranded in the Androka Commune on March 2.

Emergency food assistance has been initiated, with partners distributing substantial quantities of rice and oil to meet the immediate needs of affected populations. Coordination meetings amongst the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) and various agencies have been conducted to ensure a streamlined response and resource sharing. Partners urgently call for additional resources to support ongoing humanitarian efforts given the depletion of supplies following prior cyclone incidents.

Moving forward, the ongoing coordination among local authorities and humanitarian agencies will be critical for effective service delivery in the aftermath of Cyclone Honde. With the cyclone season expected to peak until April, proactive measures are necessary to ensure that displaced populations receive adequate support. Continuous monitoring and assessment of needs will inform subsequent interventions, as Madagascar seeks to recover from this devastating weather event.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Honde has resulted in significant loss of life, injuries, and widespread displacement in Madagascar. The response efforts are currently being coordinated by governmental and humanitarian entities to address immediate needs and provide relief. Urgent appeals for additional resources emphasize the critical need for continued support as the cyclone season progresses. Effective coordination and preparedness will be essential in mitigating the impacts of future weather events.

Original Source: reliefweb.int