Cyclone Batsirai Strikes Madagascar, Threatening Millions With Severe Damage
Cyclone Batsirai hits Madagascar with winds over 200 km/h, affecting millions. The storm is set to bring significant damage, causing concerns for residents still recovering from previous storms. Humanitarian organizations mobilize aid in preparation for the impending impact.
Cyclone Batsirai has made landfall on Madagascar, unleashing powerful winds over 200 km/h (about 124 mph) and heavy rain. This storm is the second to hit the island in a matter of weeks, following the damage from Tropical Storm Ana in late January. It hit Mananjary district, located 530 km (310 miles) southeast of the capital Antananarivo, and experts warn of “widespread damage” in the aftermath, according to various news sources.
Meteorologist Lovandrainy Ratovoharisoa confirmed that Batsirai struck around 8 PM local time, but details about the immediate impact were scarce. Residents have been preparing for the storm, with forecasts indicating that the eye of Cyclone Batsirai will pass through central Madagascar overnight and move towards the western coastline by Monday. Winds were projected to escalate even further, potentially reaching up to 250 km/h (155 mph), and waves could swell to 15 meters (50 feet).
In response to the imminent threat, the United Nations announced it is enhancing its preparedness with aid groups, placing rescue aircraft on standby and stockpiling essential supplies. Jens Laerke, a spokesperson for the UN’s humanitarian agency OCHA, indicated that the impact of Batsirai is likely to be significant, especially since the area is still recovering from the previous storm.
Following Tropical Storm Ana, which affected about 131,000 individuals and claimed at least 58 lives, the situation remains critical. The UN World Food Programme estimates that Batsirai could directly impact around 595,000 people, with around 150,000 more likely to face displacement due to landslides and flooding.
“We are very nervous,” said Pasqualina Di Sirio, the WFP chief in Madagascar, while addressing reporters via video call. The urgency of the situation has prompted search and rescue teams to stand by, as residents take measures to prepare their homes for the fierce winds. Tsarafidy Ben Ali, a local coal seller, described his efforts as he secured the roof of his house with bags of soil, saying, “The gusts of wind are going to be very strong. That’s why we’re reinforcing the roofs.”
According to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Cyclone Batsirai poses a risk to about 4.4 million people in various capacities, making it crucial for continued monitoring and support as the storm progresses.
In summary, Cyclone Batsirai is poised to deliver serious impacts to Madagascar, coming in the wake of Tropical Storm Ana. With winds exceeding 200 km/h, preparations are underway, but the country faces substantial risks. With aid agencies on alert, authorities prepare for potentially extensive damage and humanitarian crises. The cyclone threatens not just immediate safety but long-term recovery efforts as well.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
