Madagascar is counting the cost of Cyclone Gajaani, a ferocious storm that has claimed 59 lives and wounded 804 people. The National Disaster Management Agency detailed the escalating toll on Monday, as rescue operations continue in the storm’s primary strike zones.
Spanning 25 districts in five regions of eastern and central Madagascar, the cyclone impacted over 420,000 people. It left 49,000 structures damaged and demolished more than 25,000 homes, turning vibrant communities into scenes of despair.
Authorities declared a national disaster on February 11, attributing the move to fatalities, widespread displacement, and irreparable harm to essential services and livelihoods. The storm’s timing – right after Cyclone Fitia and amid heavy seasonal rains – amplified the destruction through unprecedented flooding and economic disruption.
In a rapid show of solidarity, the UN allocated $3 million from its emergency fund last Thursday, poised to assist 90,000 individuals. Partner contributions have enabled the rollout of 800 metric tons of rice and other vital supplies. Initial surveys indicate 250,000 people hit, 7,000 forced from homes, 65,000 residences flooded or wrecked, and 600 classrooms out of commission.
Leading multi-agency efforts, the government is spearheading evacuations, shelters, and aid deliveries while calling for international reinforcements. As the island nation confronts this calamity, questions loom over long-term resilience against intensifying cyclones in a changing climate.