Madagascar: Impact and Response to Tropical Storm Honde

Tropical Storm Honde struck Madagascar on March 2, resulting in three deaths, one missing person, and injuries to 69 others. Approximately 21,600 individuals were displaced across Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy, with over 7,200 homes affected. The government, along with humanitarian partners, is leading emergency response efforts, although additional resources are urgently required as supplies run low amid the ongoing cyclone season.

On March 2, Tropical Storm Honde passed approximately 100 km off the southwestern coast of Madagascar, causing substantial adverse effects primarily in two regions. Initial assessments report three fatalities, one individual missing, and 69 injuries. The storm displaced around 21,600 individuals across several cities, particularly affecting Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy, leading to significant damages to infrastructure, including residential buildings and educational institutions.

The storm has led to the inundation of more than 7,200 homes, with 913 sustaining damage and 1,924 being completely destroyed. Currently, displaced individuals are being sheltered in 54 accommodation sites across these districts. Many schools have suffered damage, jeopardizing the resumption of educational activities. Tropical Storm Honde is now moving southeast away from Madagascar and is anticipated to weaken significantly by March 6, losing its tropical characteristics thereafter.

Tropical Storm Honde originated in the southern Mozambique Channel and intensified into a cyclone on February 26, approaching Toliara Province on February 28. Regions such as Ampanihy and Toliara experienced extended rainfall prior to the storm, already displacing vulnerable populations. Additionally, the capital, Antananarivo, encountered severe flooding due to adverse weather conditions from February 14 to 19, compounding the ongoing humanitarian concerns.

Humanitarian organizations have mobilized to support a government-led emergency response. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with the provision of essential supplies, including food, non-food items, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) kits, as well as medical assistance. The Government has deployed a helicopter to rescue stranded individuals in the Ampanihy District, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Food security partners have begun distributing essential supplies, providing 30 metric tons of rice and 7 metric tons of oil to support displaced populations in Ampanihy. The current inventory of humanitarian supplies is rapidly dwindling following the response to earlier disasters, prompting calls for additional support to replenish essential stocks as the peak cyclone season extends into April. Coordination meetings have been convened to streamline aid efforts and resource allocation across affected areas.

The impact of Tropical Storm Honde on Madagascar has been devastating, with significant loss of life, displacement of thousands, and extensive damage to infrastructure and homes. The government, in partnership with humanitarian organizations, is actively coordinating emergency responses, although there is an acute need for additional resources to address ongoing humanitarian needs amid the cyclone season. Ensuring timely aid and support remains critical for the affected communities.

Original Source: reliefweb.int