Madagascar: Recovery efforts ongoing as of Feb. 18 following passage of tropical cylones /update 2

Event

Recovery efforts are ongoing in Madagascar as of Feb. 18 following the passage of a series of tropical cyclones in the past few weeks. The country has experienced heavy rainfall since Jan. 17 due to a low-pressure system. Tropical Cyclone Ana transited over Madagascar Jan. 22, causing additional widespread flooding. Tropical Cyclone Batsirai then made landfall as an intense tropical cyclone just north of the city of Mananjary, Vatovavy Region, Feb. 5. Tropical Storm Dumako made landfall in Soanierana Ivongo District in Analanjirofo Region Feb. 15.

The heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding since Jan. 17 and Ana resulted in at least 58 deaths, mostly in the capital. Over 100,00 people were affected by the severe weather and 10,000 homes were damaged across Analamanga, Mangoro, Atsinanana, Boeny, Diana, Matsiatra Ambony, Sofia, Vakinankaratra, Analanjirofo and Itasy regions.

The National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC) has confirmed at least 121 additional deaths from Batsirai, including at least 87 fatalities in Ikongo District, Fitovinany Region. At least 27,000 people from 6,000 households remain evacuated. The storm has destroyed 8,364 buildings, damaged 4,654 others, and flooded 7,098 houses. At least six hospitals are destroyed and 87 others were affected.

As of Feb. 18, BNGRC has confirmed six fatalities associated with Dumako. Storm and wind damage was reported in Soanierana Ivongo, Sainte Marie and Fenerive Est in Analanjirofo region, and in Anosibe An’Ala in Alaotra Mangoro region. Flooding was reported in areas of Atsinanana Region, mostly around Toamasina. Over 5,000 people were affected by the storm, with 2,982 displaced. The storm destroyed 113 homes and associated flooding in the districts of Toamasina I and II in Atsinanana Region damaged 983 homes. A bridge in Toamasina II district was also damaged by floods.

All national roads have been reopened for vehicles below 15 tons in weight. Remotes areas, especially in Vatovavy and Fitovinany regions, remain inaccessible by road. Water and power supply are progressively being restored. 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.

A fourth major storm, Tropical Storm Emnati, is forecast to reach the eastern coast of Madagascar late Feb. 22, and will likely cause further damage and hamper ongoing recovery efforts from the previous storms.

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)