Madgascar: Tropical Storm Alvaro tracking eastward over Mozambique Channel early Jan. 1 /update 1

Tropical Storm Alvaro is tracking eastward over the Mozambique Channel toward Madagascar as of early Jan. 1. As of 03:00, the system is around 368 km (229 miles) west-southwest of Morondava. Alvaro is forecast to maintain its intensity and make landfall over the Menabe region later the same day. The storm will weaken slightly into a tropical depression after landfall as it passes east-southeastward across south-central Madagascar through at least Jan. 3 and enters the Indian Ocean. Meteo Madagascar maintains a yellow alert for the districts of Morondova, Manja, Morombe, and Toliara ahead of the storm's arrival. Officials have also warned mariners between Maintirano and Toliara to avoid going out to sea.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible. The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose a serious health threat.