Madagascar: Tropical storm to hit northeast March 16

Event

Tropical Storm  Eliakim is expected to bring hazardous weather and dangerous sea conditions to northeastern Madagascar from Friday, March 16. The storm is currently forecast to make landfall around 05:00 (local time) on Friday before passing through the northeast and moving back out to sea on the evening of March 18. The Masoala Peninsula will likely be the most severely affected by adverse weather conditions, including gale force winds and heavy rain.

Meteo Madagascar - the Malagasy meteorological department - has issued a yellow alert (the second-highest on a four-point scale, issued 24-48 hours before impact) for the much of the northeast of the country.

Associated transportation disruptions and flooding are possible.

Context

The cyclone season in Madagascar typically runs from November to April, with coastal areas of the country most severely affected.

Advice

Individuals present in the affected areas of Madagascar are advised to monitor local weather reports and weather alerts issued by Meteo Madagascar, confirm travel reservations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.