Save the Children Issues Urgent Warning as Tropical Storm Approaches Northern Madagascar
Families and children in Northern Madagascar are facing a looming threat as a deadly Tropical Storm approaches the region, prompting widespread evacuations and fears of destructive winds, violent storms, and flooding. According to the meteorological department, heavy rainfall has already been experienced in the area, with more severe weather conditions forecasted to hit central and northern Madagascar starting from 11 January.
The impending storm comes after Madagascar narrowly escaped the worst of Tropical Storm Chido in mid-December last year. However, the second tropical cyclone of the season is now expected to cross the region with potentially devastating consequences. Save the Children has highlighted the increasing frequency of extreme weather events like Storm Dikeledi, attributing them to the climate crisis. The aid agency emphasized the urgent need for more funding from higher-income countries to support lower-income nations in mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Tatiana Dasysaid, Save the Children’s Country Representative for Madagascar, expressed grave concerns for the safety of over 22,500 children in the cyclone’s path. The risk of displacement, loss of homes, and potential injuries or fatalities due to falling objects or floods is a major concern. The organization is prepared to conduct initial impact assessments and provide assistance to affected families and children in the Northern region of Madagascar.
Save the Children has already taken proactive measures by pre-positioning essential supplies in the Sava region and enhancing community preparedness, particularly at the school level, to withstand the cyclone’s impact. With thousands of lives at stake, urgent rescue operations and humanitarian aid are crucial to mitigate the storm’s devastating effects. Save the Children also calls for increased climate funding from higher-income countries to support those most affected by climate change.
Having operated in Madagascar since 2016, Save the Children has a proven track record in providing cash-based assistance and child protection interventions during humanitarian crises. In 2024 alone, their programs reached over 12,700 children, demonstrating their commitment to supporting vulnerable communities in times of need.
As Tropical Storm DIKELEDI approaches Northern Madagascar, Save the Children’s swift response and advocacy for climate funding underscore the critical importance of preparedness and support for those facing the impacts of extreme weather events. Stay tuned for updates on the situation as it unfolds.
Note: This article is distributed by APO Group on behalf of Save the Children.
