Update on Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi in Madagascar – Humanitarian Response and Impact

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi affected over 7,000 people in Madagascar, causing significant damage to homes and schools. Displacement sites are being vacated as people return home, while the cyclone is set to intensify, bringing heavy rains and strong winds to the southwest coast. Emergency relief efforts are ongoing, providing food, water, and education support, with health measures in place to prevent disease outbreaks.

The Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has adversely affected over 7,000 individuals in Madagascar, leading to the damage and destruction of over 1,000 homes. Displacement sites in the northern region have been vacated as of January 15, with many returning home. Schools resumed operations on January 13, although approximately 8,000 children faced disruptions due to damage to around 250 classrooms. Heavy rains and strong winds are anticipated along the southwestern coast, particularly in Toliara Province, as the cyclone intensifies.

The National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC) reported that the cyclone impacted 2,284 families, notably in the Diana and Sava regions. The cyclone caused at least three fatalities and significant infrastructural damages, including flooding and the destruction of homes and classrooms. The cyclone is expected to evolve into an intense tropical cyclone from January 15 to 16, posing ongoing risks to these coastal areas.

Emergency relief efforts are underway, with the government deploying pre-positioned humanitarian supplies used during previous cyclones. The Food sector is assisting affected families with essential food items, and the WASH sector is implementing water purification and sanitation measures. Education experts are being sent to support local coordination and facilitate the return to school for the affected communities. The health sector is providing free medical treatment, and disease surveillance is actively being maintained.

The port of Toliara has temporarily closed due to cyclone warnings, halting sea operations from January 15 to 17. Coordination meetings are being held to keep all partners informed regarding the cyclone’s developments. Early warning messages continue to be disseminated to safeguard communities, and a contingency plan has been approved for child protection initiatives in the impacted regions.

Madagascar frequently experiences the impact of tropical cyclones, especially during the cyclone season. Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has prompted significant responses from various governmental and humanitarian organizations to assist affected communities. Understanding the challenges in these regions, including displacement, damaged infrastructure, and health hazards, is crucial to ensuring effective and timely support.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has severely impacted Madagascar, affecting thousands and causing infrastructural destruction. Emergency responses are being implemented to assist those affected, ensuring food security, education continuity, and health services. Continued monitoring of the cyclone’s trajectory and effective coordination among partners will be vital to mitigating further damage and safeguarding the communities at risk.

Original Source: reliefweb.int