Madagascar: Recovery efforts ongoing as of Feb. 10 following passage of Tropical Cyclone Batsirai

Event

Recovery efforts are ongoing in Madagascar following the passage of Tropical Cyclone Batsirai as of Feb. 10. The country has experienced heavy rainfall since Jan. 17 due to a separate low-pressure system. Tropical Cyclone Ana then transited over Madagascar Jan. 22, causing additional widespread flooding. Batsirai then made landfall as an intense tropical cyclone just north of the city of Mananjary, in the Vatovavy Region Feb. 5.

The heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding since Jan. 17 and Ana have resulted in at least 58 deaths, mostly in the capital. As of Feb. 9, The National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC) has confirmed at least 92 additional deaths from Batsirai, including 71 fatalities in Ikongo District, Fitovinany Region. At least 61,489 people from 13,453 households remain evacuated. The storm has destroyed 7,488 buildings, damaged 2,714 others, and flooded 6,978 houses. At least six hospitals are destroyed and 53 others damaged.

The roads between RN7 and Mananjary, including RNS 25 to PK 22, are closed. Multiple other roads are closed due to damage and flooding; RNT 42 at PK14 connecting Fianarantsoa to Ikalamavony and the RN 7 at PK 331+200 connecting Vohiposa to Ambohimahasoa in Haute Matsiatra Region, RN 12 at PK 275+200 connecting Farafangana to Vangaindrano and RNT 18 at PK 2+000 connecting Vangaindrano to Midongy Atsimo in the Atsimo-Atsinanana Region, and RNT 8 at PK 80+000 connecting Morondava to Belo sur Tsiribihina in the Menabe Region. Protracted transport and business disruptions are almost certain as responders continue their efforts; utility disruptions are likely over the coming days and weeks. Shortages of fuel and other basic goods are likely. Driving conditions may be difficult on rural routes and regional highways.

Advice

Monitor local media for updates and advisories on weather conditions. Make allowances for possible supply chain disruptions in affected areas. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Use extreme caution in low-lying areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for flooding. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.

Resources

Madagascar General Directorate of Meteorology (French)
Madagascar National Office for Risk and Disaster Management Facebook (BNGRC) (French)