Madagascar: Impact of Tropical Storm Honde and Emergency Response

Tropical Storm Honde struck Madagascar, displacing approximately 21,600 people, with three deaths reported. The storm devastated infrastructure, with significant damage to homes and schools. The government is leading a coordinated response, providing aid and resources, while also facing challenges in resource replenishment as the cyclone season continues.

On March 2, Tropical Storm Honde impacted Madagascar, primarily affecting the southwestern coast. Initial assessments report three fatalities, one person missing, and 69 injuries. Around 21,600 individuals are displaced across multiple cities, especially in Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy. The storm caused significant damage, with over 7,200 homes flooded, and schools suffered varying degrees of destruction, disrupting education.

The Government of Madagascar is leading the emergency response, with humanitarian partners mobilizing resources to assist affected regions. Aid includes search and rescue operations, food, non-food items, and hygiene kits. A helicopter was deployed to rescue stranded individuals in the Androka Commune, demonstrating the urgency and scale of the response effort.

Despite moving southeast and diminishing in strength, Honde previously generated extreme weather that exacerbated conditions in regions already affected by flooding earlier in February. The storm was developed in the southern Mozambique Channel and intensified by February 26, affecting areas with already existing rain-induced displacement.

Humanitarian partners are actively engaged in providing immediate support, including food rations and medical supplies, in the Ampanihy District. Distribution efforts included 30 metric tons of rice and 7 metric tons of oil, which are critical to meet the immediate needs of the displaced population. Coordination efforts are led by the National Disaster Management Office, enhancing operational readiness among stakeholders.

With cyclone season continuing until April, resources are dwindling due to responses to both Cyclone Dikeledi and now Honde. Partners are advocating for additional resources to replenish stocks, as future storms could intensify the humanitarian situation. Coordination among agencies is crucial to navigating the challenges posed by ongoing drought and food insecurity across the affected regions.

Tropical Storm Honde has devastated parts of Madagascar, displacing thousands and causing destruction to homes and schools. The government and humanitarian partners are responding quickly, though they face challenges due to limited resources. Continued efforts are necessary to assist affected individuals as the cyclone season progresses, highlighting the need for coordinated emergency responses and resource mobilization.

Original Source: reliefweb.int