The death toll from Cyclone Gizani in Madagascar has risen to 36
Madagascar has been struck by another natural disaster, adding to the suffering of its residents. Official authorities have announced a rising death toll from Cyclone Gizani, which devastated the island last Tuesday. According to the latest figures, at least 36 people have been killed, while more than 370 others sustained injuries of varying severity, reflecting the intensity of the storm that hit the country's east coast.
Details of losses and material damages
Madagascar's National Office for Risk and Disaster Management reported that the damage extended beyond human lives, with infrastructure and homes suffering catastrophic losses. Statistics indicate that approximately 18,000 homes were completely destroyed across the country, while over 37,000 others were partially damaged. The human toll was tragically concentrated in the Tomasina region, which alone recorded 32 deaths. Tomasina is home to the main port and is considered the economic heart of the country.
The geographical context and history of cyclones in Madagascar
Located off the east coast of Africa, Madagascar is one of the world's most vulnerable countries to climate-related natural disasters. Situated in the southwestern Indian Ocean basin, the island experiences an annual cyclone season that typically runs from November to April. The country has endured a relentless series of tropical storms and cyclones, with more than a dozen powerful cyclones striking since 2020, severely straining its capacity for rapid response and recovery.
Economic and humanitarian repercussions
The hurricane's impact on the Tomasina region carries serious economic implications. The port there is the main gateway for importing food and fuel and exporting local products such as vanilla. Any disruption to this vital facility typically leads to supply chain disruptions and price hikes for essential goods, exacerbating the already difficult living conditions for residents. This disaster adds a new burden to humanitarian organizations and the government, which are struggling to rebuild what was destroyed by previous storms.
Climate change and the increasing intensity of storms
Meteorologists and climate scientists link the increasing frequency and intensity of these cyclones to global climate change. Warmer ocean waters contribute to the growth of storms, making them more intense and destructive, as was the case with Typhoon Jizani, which brought winds exceeding 195 kilometers per hour. International calls continue for strengthening infrastructure in developing island nations to make them more resilient to these extreme weather events.
