Eleven people have died due to heavy rains in Madagascar, prompting warnings to residents
Madagascar has been struck by another humanitarian tragedy due to severe weather conditions, with at least 11 people killed and others seriously injured by torrential rains and flash floods that have been battering the island since late November of last year. These events have compounded the suffering of the population during what is already a particularly harsh rainy season.
Severe damage in the capital Antananarivo
In detailing the incident, Madagascar's National Disaster Management Agency reported that the capital, Antananarivo, was among the areas hardest hit by the torrential rains. Official data indicated that the heavy rains directly impacted the lives of 274 people, and that flash floods and water accumulation caused damage to 26 residential buildings, leaving many families homeless.
Climate context and hurricane season
Madagascar, located in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa, is one of the countries most vulnerable to climate-related natural disasters. The country typically experiences a cyclone and tropical storm season from November to April, during which the island faces significant challenges annually related to flooding and landslides. Meteorologists indicate that global climate change has contributed to the increased intensity and frequency of these weather events, placing immense strain on the country's fragile infrastructure.
Infrastructure challenges and housing risks
The topography of the capital, Antananarivo, which is partly built on steep hills and partly in low-lying areas, exacerbates the risk of landslides and flash floods. In this context, authorities have urged residents to exercise extreme caution, issuing an urgent call for all families living in traditional, older houses or structurally unsound buildings to evacuate immediately and move to shelters or safer areas, to avoid the collapse of these buildings on their inhabitants due to the saturated soil.
Weather conditions expected to continue
Looking ahead, Madagascar's meteorological service predicts continued rainfall of varying intensity, particularly in the northwest and central highlands, over the coming days. This forecast has put emergency and relief agencies on high alert to address any further consequences that may arise from the ongoing severe weather, amid concerns about its impact on crops and local food security.
