Madagascar: Update on Tropical Storm Honde’s Impact and Response
Tropical Storm Honde, which affected Madagascar closely on March 2, has displaced around 21,600 people, with initial reports citing three deaths and numerous injuries. Significant infrastructure damage has been recorded, particularly in Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy. The government is leading response efforts, with various humanitarian organizations providing necessary aid and resources to assist the displaced.
On March 1, 2025, Tropical Storm Honde impacted several regions of Madagascar as it passed approximately 100 km from the southwestern coast. Initial assessments reported three fatalities, one missing person, and 69 injuries. The storm caused severe displacement, impacting around 21,600 individuals chiefly in the districts of Toliara, Belo sur Tsiribihina, and Ampanihy. Significant damage to infrastructure was also noted, affecting both residential buildings and educational institutions.
As of now, approximately 7,200 homes were flooded, with 913 sustaining damage and 1,924 completely destroyed. Emergency accommodations for displaced individuals have been established across 54 sites within affected districts, complicating the recovery process for local schools as many have sustained classroom damage. Weather forecasts indicate that Tropical Storm Honde is now moving away from Madagascar, and according to Météo France, it is expected to weaken and lose its tropical characteristics completely by March 6.
The response efforts are being led by the government, with humanitarian partners actively mobilizing resources from various locations. Search and rescue operations have commenced, particularly with the deployment of a helicopter from Antananarivo to assist between 80 and 100 people in the Androka Commune. Food and non-food items, water, sanitation kits, and medical supplies have been distributed to the affected populations, with food security organizations providing 30 metric tons of rice and 7 tons of oil in Ampanihy, sufficient for five days of rations.
Additional health provisions are being coordinated, with medicines set to be transported from the capital to Ampanihy District. Due to the ongoing nature of emergencies—following previous storms and the current cyclone season—partners have raised concerns regarding dwindling resources, calling for replenishment efforts. Coordination meetings have taken place to streamline logistical actions involving local authorities and humanitarian organizations to ensure an effective response going forward.
In summary, Tropical Storm Honde has had a significant impact on Madagascar, particularly in the south-western regions where thousands have been displaced and infrastructure severely damaged. The government, alongside humanitarian partners, is actively responding to the crisis, providing essential support such as food, shelter, and medical care. The need for additional resources remains critical as the region continues to navigate through the cyclone season.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
