Cyclone Honde Brings Destruction and Displacement to Madagascar
Madagascar faced severe repercussions from Cyclone Honde, which wreaked havoc across the island at the end of February 2025. Official reports confirm the cyclone's devastating impact, resulting in three fatalities and nearly 40,000 individuals displaced from their homes.
According to the Bureau National de Gestion des Risques et de Catastrophes, the cyclone approached Madagascar's southwestern coast on February 28, bringing with it fierce winds and torrential rainfall. The initial assessment indicated three deaths occurred in the town of Ampanihy Ouest, highlighting the storm’s immediate and tragic effects. Meanwhile, at least 42 additional people sustained injuries linked to the cyclone’s dangerous conditions.
The aftermath saw a staggering 38,949 people displaced, with 9,303 families affected. Many of them relocated to shelters set up by local authorities. The affected areas spanned from Toliara I and II, with reports indicating over 20,000 individuals forced to evacuate their homes.
Notably, even though the cyclone's epicenter did not make direct landfall, substantial damage ensued. Figures show 7,099 residences experienced flooding, and 1,271 structures were completely destroyed. Reports out of Morondava, located in the Menabe region, raised alarms about significant water rises threatening local communities.
A local source noted: "Les éléments des forces de l’ordre se sont mobilisés pour aider les familles à évacuer les lieux car plusieurs endroits ont été gravement inondés, même les terres agricoles," indicating the complete disruption as emergency services worked tirelessly to evacuate vulnerable families and address the immediate dangers posed by floodwaters.
Cyclone Honde is not isolated, as another storm, Cyclone Garance, impacted the nearby island of Réunion simultaneously. It is reported to have caused four deaths and displaced nearly 1,000 residents on the island. The occurrence of two cyclones at once highlighted the dangerous weather conditions affecting the southwestern Indian Ocean.
Predictions indicated Cyclone Honde would gradually move away from Madagascar, and authorities issued multiple alerts across the island. Red alerts for immediate danger were placed for the regions of Androy and Ampanihy, with yellow alerts warning of potential threats across Anosy. Blue vigilance alerts were also raised for Toliara I and II, Betioky Atsimo, and Benenitra, underscoring the regions’ heightened risk.
Local maritime users were cautioned against venturing to sea as conditions remained perilous. Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols to navigate the treacherous aftermath of the storm.
With the cyclone season peaking between November and April, meteorologists warn the threat of additional cyclonic activity remains high. The South-West Indian Ocean faces continued risk of flooding, coastal submersion, and landslides, aggravate the already severe humanitarian situation. Local communities strive to cope with the damage caused by Cyclone Honde, and preparations are underway to mitigate the impact of future storms.
The collaboration of local authorities, emergency services, and community volunteers plays a pivotal role as Madagascar looks to rebound from this significant disaster. The unity and resilience demonstrated by the people highlight the strength of communities amid the challenges posed by natural calamities.
The road to recovery will undoubtedly be long for those affected by Cyclone Honde, but their spirit remains unbroken as they come together to rebuild and support each other through this tragic period.