Madagascar: Impact of Tropical Storm Honde – Flash Update 1 (04 March 2025)

Tropical Storm Honde struck Madagascar on 2 March 2025, causing three deaths, one missing individual, and injuries to 69 people. Approximately 21,600 individuals have been displaced in the southern regions, including Toliara and Ampanihy. The storm inflicted severe damage to homes, schools, and infrastructure, prompting a coordinated emergency response led by the government and supported by humanitarian partners.

On 2 March 2025, Tropical Storm Honde impacted Madagascar, predominantly affecting two regions near the southwestern coast, approximately 100 km away. Initial assessments have reported three fatalities, one missing individual, and 69 injuries. The storm has displaced approximately 21,600 residents across various cities, particularly in Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy districts, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and prompting a humanitarian response.

Casualties from the storm include flooded homes, with over 7,200 households impacted, including 1,924 completely destroyed and 913 damaged. Many community members are now hosted in 54 accommodation sites that lack adequate facilities. Additionally, educational institutions suffered significant damage, with classrooms rendered unusable, hindering the ability to resume classes.

After moving away from the Malagasy coast, Tropical Storm Honde continues to weaken and is expected to lose its tropical status by 6 March. Prior to its impact, these areas had already experienced adverse weather conditions, including extensive flooding, leading to previous displacements affecting the same communities.

The local government is spearheading emergency responses, with humanitarian partners providing essential aid such as food, hygiene supplies, and medical care. A helicopter has been deployed to rescue stranded individuals, and food security partners have distributed critical supplies sufficient for several days to affected populations. However, the response resources are dwindling, raising concerns about their sustainability amidst the ongoing cyclone season.

Consecutive meetings conducted by the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) include coordination efforts with local authorities and international non-governmental organizations to enhance the effectiveness of the response. A comprehensive assessment of available supplies has been shared, with promises to utilize resources from other operational needs as required.

In summary, Tropical Storm Honde has caused significant humanitarian challenges in Madagascar, including casualties, displacement, and infrastructure damage. The government is actively leading the response, with valuable support from humanitarian partners. However, the depletion of emergency supplies poses a risk as the cyclone season continues, necessitating immediate additional resource allocations.

Original Source: reliefweb.int