Cyclone Batsirai struck Madagascar, resulting in at least 10 deaths and nearly 48,000 displacements. The cyclone made landfall with winds of 165 km/h and caused severe flooding and destruction, especially in areas like Mananjary and Nosy Varika. This event follows Tropical Storm Ana, which previously affected 131,000 residents. Continued risks, such as erosion, complicate recovery efforts.
Cyclone Batsirai has wreaked havoc in Madagascar, resulting in at least 10 fatalities and displacing nearly 48,000 individuals. The cyclone, described as the second severe storm in just two weeks, made landfall in Mananjary with winds reaching 165 km/h (103 mph). The cyclone has led to extensive flooding, uprooted trees, and damaged infrastructure as residents attempted to secure their homes against the storm.
Residents in affected areas, such as Ambalavao, reported fatalities from collapsed homes. Reports indicate that the devastation is particularly severe in Mananjary, where one resident stated, “Mananjary is completely destroyed, no matter where you go everything is destroyed.” This widespread destruction has left many regions, including Nosy Varika, isolated due to flooding.
The cyclone’s aftermath is grim, with technical advisers noting that around 95% of Nosy Varika was destroyed. The impact of Cyclone Batsirai follows closely after Tropical Storm Ana, which had previously impacted over 131,000 people in Madagascar. Meteorological reports confirmed that while Batsirai weakened during its passage, it initially posed a very serious threat.
In Mahanoro, the rising sea has further complicated the situation, leading to erosion and exposing graves in a cemetery. Residents have faced increased hardship, including the necessity of reburials pending resources for proper funerals. The community’s resilience is tested as they navigate these compounding crises following the two severe storms.
Cyclone Batsirai has significantly impacted Madagascar, causing fatalities, displacements, and widespread destruction. With reports of isolated regions and infrastructure damage, the aftermath continues to be severe. The island grapples with rebuilding efforts as it recovers from consecutive storms while facing additional challenges, including erosion and infrastructural loss.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
