Impact of Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi on Madagascar: Update as of January 15, 2025

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has affected over 7,000 individuals in Madagascar, damaging thousands of homes and disrupting education for many children. Significant rainfall and winds are expected on the southwest coast, prompting ongoing humanitarian response efforts. The government and agencies are coordinating assistance and prioritizing recovery.

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has severely impacted Madagascar, affecting over 7,000 individuals, with more than 1,000 homes damaged, including 203 that were destroyed. As of January 15, the majority of displacement sites in the northern regions have been vacated, confirming that those displaced have returned to their residences. However, disruptions to education persist, with approximately 8,000 children impacted due to almost 250 classrooms being either damaged or destroyed.

Looking ahead, significant rainfall and strong winds are anticipated on Madagascar’s southwest coast, particularly in Toliara Province, as the cyclone continues to intensify. The Government and humanitarian organizations are dedicating efforts to provide vital support to those affected while closely monitoring the cyclone’s trajectory.

Currently, the number of individuals affected by Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has grown to 7,028 across 2,284 families, particularly in the Diana and Sava regions. Reports reveal at least three fatalities, alongside extensive material losses including over 1,185 flooded houses and substantial damage to educational facilities. Meanwhile, the cyclone is expected to strengthen into a severe tropical cyclone and continue its path south-southeast of Toliara until it gradually weakens and diverts towards the east.

In response to the cyclone, the Government of Madagascar has mobilized pre-positioned humanitarian resources to assist those in need. Support has included food provisions and essential WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) items for affected families. Schools have resumed operations in parts of the north, while efforts for child protection and health monitoring are underway. Coordination meetings among humanitarian partners are ongoing to facilitate effective response measures.

Finally, due to the impending severe weather, the port of Toliara has implemented a temporary closure and prevention of sea activities until January 17 as a precautionary measure against high winds and hazardous sea conditions. Recovery efforts continue as communities begin returning to stability amidst challenging circumstances.

Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, which made landfall on January 11, has resulted in significant disruptions across Madagascar. Its effects have been especially pronounced in the northern regions, where emergency responses have been activated. With schools impacted and the risk of disease on the rise, the situation calls for immediate humanitarian assistance and careful monitoring of the cyclone’s progression.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has led to considerable challenges for Madagascar, affecting thousands and damaging crucial infrastructure. Humanitarian agencies and the government are actively engaged in recovery efforts, providing essential aid and focusing on stabilizing the affected communities. Continuous support and resource mobilization are essential for those impacted by this disaster.

Original Source: reliefweb.int