Madagascar: Weather alert issued due to Tropical Cyclone Belna December 9

Event

The national meteorology agency issued a red cyclone alert (second highest on a four-tier scale) for northwest Madagascar, including Boeny, Besalampy, Morafenobe, Ambatomainty, Maintirano, Maevantanana, and Kandreho, on Monday, December 9, as Tropical Cyclone Belna continues to move towards the region. Belna is forecast to make landfall in Soalala around 16:00 (local time) on Monday. A yellow cyclone alert is also in effect in Bongolava, Menabe, Antsalova, Nosy be, Ambanja, Analalava, Antsohihy, Boriziny, Mampikony, and Tsaratanana. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to the island, which may cause flooding or damage to infrastructure. Transportation and commercial disruptions are possible over the coming days.

As of 09:00 on December 9, Tropical Cyclone Belna is located at approximately 14.6°S 45.6°E with maximum sustained winds of 148 kph (91 mph). The storm is moving southwest at 19 kph (5 mph) and is expected to maintain its strength until it passes Madagascar.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous -15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult. It is also advised that one should never drive through flooded streets; as floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.