Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi affected over 7,000 people in Madagascar, damaging homes and disrupting education for thousands of children. Displacement sites have closed as families return home. The cyclone is expected to intensify and bathe the southwest coast in severe weather before weakening. The government is providing humanitarian assistance and monitoring the situation closely.
Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has significantly impacted Madagascar, affecting over 7,000 individuals and damaging over a thousand homes as of January 15, 2025. The cyclone has led to the destruction of 203 houses, while educational facilities for nearly 8,000 children have also suffered disruptions due to the storm’s effects. Displacement sites in the northern regions have now been vacated as affected residents return to their homes.
The cyclone intensified on January 15, being located approximately 200 kilometers from Madagascar’s southwest coast. The southwest province, particularly Toliara, is anticipated to face harsh weather conditions, including heavy rains and strong winds. Despite worsening conditions, Dikeledi is expected to weaken as it moves south-east, posing less danger to land.
The Government of Madagascar is actively engaging in humanitarian efforts, utilizing pre-positioned resources from prior cyclones to aid affected families. Efforts include distributing food, water purification supplies, and resuming educational activities where possible. Child protection initiatives are being established to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children in impacted areas.
Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi posed a severe threat to Madagascar, especially on January 11, 2025, when it directly affected the northern regions, leading to considerable human and infrastructural damage. With first response measures in place from previous disaster experiences, government and humanitarian organizations are striving to provide relief to those impacted while monitoring the cyclone’s path and intensity, which is crucial for ensuring public safety and effective resource allocation.
The impact of Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi has been substantial, with thousands affected and critical infrastructure compromised. The situation remains dynamic as the cyclone is forecasted to intensify before gradually weakening. Continued efforts by governmental and humanitarian partners are essential in providing relief and addressing the needs of those affected. The situation calls for ongoing vigilance as authorities guard against further disasters and support those impacted.
Original Source: www.unocha.org
