Tropical Storm Vitya has caused extensive damage across northwestern Madagascar, unleashing powerful winds and torrential rainfall that triggered severe flooding, particularly in the coastal city of Mahajanga, authorities said on Sunday.
According to Radio France Internationale, the storm was accompanied by winds reaching speeds of up to 170 kilometers per hour, along with heavy downpours that led to widespread flooding, population displacement, and disruptions to electricity and drinking water supplies.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, maintaining the highest level of alert in several affected regions.
In Mahajanga, rising water levels following the storm’s passage isolated multiple neighborhoods, complicating rescue and relief efforts.
Emergency services have been working to reach cut-off areas as conditions allow.
The National Office for Risk and Disaster Management reported that more than 5,000 people have been affected by the storm, including approximately 3,400 individuals who were evacuated to temporary shelters.
Floodwaters damaged around 1,900 homes, while several schools sustained partial damage.
Haja Andriametanisoa, Director of Operations at the disaster management office, said authorities had begun evacuating residents from villages and districts surrounded by floodwaters.
“Shelters have been set up, and food aid is being distributed to those impacted,” she said.
Officials noted that Storm Vitya is continuing its movement southeastward across Madagascar’s central highlands, where the capital, Antananarivo, is located.
Heavy rainfall is expected to persist, raising the risk of flash floods, landslides, and further damage, especially in areas with inadequate or unrepaired drainage systems.
In addition to weather-related dangers, authorities have also warned of heightened health risks, urging caution amid ongoing outbreaks of mpox in parts of the island, as flooding could exacerbate public health challenges in the coming days.
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