Tropical Storm Honde struck Madagascar on March 2, displacing approximately 21,600 people and causing three fatalities and numerous injuries. Significant damage to infrastructure has been reported, particularly in Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy, with governmental and humanitarian partners mobilizing response efforts. Continued coordination is needed to replenish supplies as the peak cyclone season approaches.
On March 2, Tropical Storm Honde passed approximately 100 km off Madagascar’s southwestern coast, significantly impacting two regions. Reports indicate the storm has resulted in three fatalities, one missing individual, and 69 injuries. The cyclone has displaced approximately 21,600 residents in cities across districts such as Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy, causing substantial damage to infrastructure including homes and schools.
The government is spearheading the emergency response, with various partners mobilizing available supplies from both the southern regions and the capital. Updated assessments reveal over 21,600 people affected, with many displaced residents sheltered in 54 accommodation sites. Furthermore, significant destruction was noted with over 7,200 houses inundated, 913 damaged, and 1,924 completely destroyed, while schools faced closures due to damaged classrooms.
Honde, which began in the southern Mozambique Channel, has since moved southeast away from inhabited areas and is expected to weaken over the coming days. The storm developed into a tropical storm by February 26 and had already contributed to flooding in Madagascar prior to its impact.
Humanitarian efforts are in full swing, supporting a government-led response aimed at providing essential aid. Rescue operations continue, with aid including food, non-food items, water and sanitation supplies, and medical assistance being dispatched. The National Disaster Management Office has coordinated various meetings to enhance response measures and stockpiling efforts from previous operations.
In addition, humanitarian partners have distributed resources such as rice, oil, and hygiene kits, which are critical for the displaced populations in Ampanihy. There is a growing concern regarding dwindling humanitarian supplies due to recent cyclone responses, prompting calls for additional assistance to replenish stockpiles as the peak cyclone season progresses until April.
Meetings among key stakeholders have facilitated operational coordination, ensuring that resources can be managed efficiently. The regional stocking assessment has been shared among designated cities in southwestern and southeastern regions, allowing for a collaborative approach to utilizing resources while addressing ongoing drought conditions.
In conclusion, Tropical Storm Honde has led to significant loss of life and extensive displacement in southern Madagascar. The response is currently being managed by government and humanitarian organizations, with ongoing needs for resources as they address the consequences of the storm. Continuous coordination between agencies is essential as the peak of the cyclone season approaches, and timely replenishment of supplies will be crucial in supporting affected communities.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
