Madagascar: Tropical Storm Honde Devastates Southern Regions, Urgent Response Underway
Tropical Storm Honde struck Madagascar on 2 March 2025, primarily affecting the south. Reports indicate three deaths, one missing, and 69 injuries. Approximately 21,600 people have been displaced, with extensive damage to infrastructure. Relief efforts are coordinated by the government and humanitarian partners, focusing on providing food, water, and medical supplies to the affected areas.
On 2 March 2025, Tropical Storm Honde severely impacted Madagascar, particularly the southern regions. Initial assessments report three fatalities, one missing person, and injuries to 69 individuals. The storm displaced approximately 21,600 residents in districts such as Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy, while causing significant infrastructure damage, including to homes and educational facilities.
Relief efforts are underway, spearheaded by the government and supported by humanitarian partners mobilizing supplies from the southern regions and the capital. Affected areas report over 7,200 flooded homes, with numerous others destroyed or damaged, necessitating emergency accommodation for displaced individuals.
As Tropical Storm Honde moves southeast, its effects on land are dissipating. Forecasts by Météo France indicate that Honde will gradually weaken and lose its tropical characteristics by 6 March.
Humanitarian agencies are actively working alongside government authorities to provide essential supplies, including food, water, and medical assistance. Efforts include search and rescue missions and the distribution of 30 metric tons of rice and 7 metric tons of oil to those displaced in Ampanihy, sufficient for five days.
Responses have been coordinated through various meetings held by the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) to enhance operational effectiveness. Stakeholders are urged to contribute additional resources to replenish depleted supplies, essential as the cyclone season persists until April 2025.
In summary, Tropical Storm Honde has caused considerable devastation in southern Madagascar, with significant loss of life, injuries, and widespread displacement. The government, aided by humanitarian partners, is responding to the immediate needs of affected residents. Ongoing coordination and resource mobilization are critical as the peak of the cyclone season continues.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
