Cyclone Gamane's Landfall in Madagascar Results in 14 Fatalities and Widespread Damage

Tropical Cyclone Gamane has wreaked havoc in Madagascar, resulting in the tragic loss of 14 lives and leaving three others injured, with three individuals still unaccounted for, as reported by the country's meteorological authorities. The cyclone hit the northern part of Madagascar on Wednesday morning, bringing with it heavy rainfall and wind speeds averaging 150 km per hour, with gusts exceeding 210 km per hour, according to the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC).

The cyclone has had a significant impact, affecting a total of 36,307 individuals, including 9,024 households, across seven regions of the country. The severity of the situation led to the evacuation of approximately 18,565 people or 4,849 households, who sought refuge in 68 emergency shelters located in various areas.

The aftermath of the cyclone was marked by devastating floods that caused substantial damage. A total of 6,675 homes and nearly 1,698 rice paddies were submerged, while 617 houses were completely destroyed, as per the data from the BNGRC.