Madagascar: Norwegian Aid Worker Reports Chaos After Cyclones
Madagascar Reels from Cyclones: A Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
Norwegian aid worker Terese Sørlie is witnessing chaos and devastation firsthand in Madagascar following two powerful cyclones that have battered the island nation in the past three weeks. The situation is particularly dire in the port city of Toamasina, where winds reached up to 250 kilometers per hour during Cyclone Gezani.
“The power is out and hospitals are destroyed. There is little access to fuel and the banks are not functioning,” Sørlie reported from Toamasina. She arrived on the island on January 3rd and experienced the cyclone’s impact directly. Toamasina, also known as Tamatave, is Madagascar’s second-largest city and most important port.
A Nation Vulnerable to Extreme Weather
Madagascar is one of the world’s poorest countries, located 400 km off the southeast coast of Africa. The recent cyclones have exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, pushing hundreds of thousands into crisis. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) reports widespread needs for emergency assistance.
Around 400,000 people are currently in urgent need of humanitarian aid, according to WFP Director Tania Goossens, who recently returned from a mission to Toamasina. “The scale of the destruction is truly overwhelming,” she stated. Reports indicate that 80 percent of the city has sustained damage, with electricity limited to approximately five percent. Water supplies have been cut off, and a WFP warehouse and office were completely destroyed.
Currently, authorities report 38 deaths and 374 injuries as a direct result of the cyclones.
The Political Landscape and Aid Delivery
Sørlie recently met with Madagascar’s president, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who came to power following a military coup in October 2025. He assured her that the army was on the ground to assist the civilian population and clear roads.
“I thanked him for being present and for taking the time,” Sørlie said of the meeting.
Food Security at a Critical Low
WFP is mobilizing its “last food stocks” for distribution in coordination with national disaster relief teams. However, the needs on the ground exceed WFP’s current capacity, prompting an urgent call for donor assistance.
This latest disaster comes on top of an already critical food security situation. Before the cyclones, 1.57 million people across the country were already food insecure, including 84,000 facing acute hunger. The situation is expected to worsen without immediate and sustained support.
“We need continued support in the coming months to help people recover, rebuild, and strengthen their resilience to further shocks,” Goossens emphasized.
How You Can Help
Donations are being collected to provide essential aid to families affected by Cyclone Gezani. Spleis.no is facilitating donations for food, clothing, and other necessities. Organizations like Doctors Without Borders are also working to reach isolated communities with life-saving assistance.
FAQ: Madagascar Cyclone Crisis
Q: What is the current situation in Madagascar?
A: Madagascar is facing a humanitarian crisis following two powerful cyclones that have caused widespread destruction, particularly in Toamasina.
Q: How many people are affected?
A: Approximately 400,000 people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.
Q: What kind of aid is needed?
A: Food, water, shelter, clothing, and medical supplies are urgently needed.
Q: How can I help?
A: You can donate to organizations providing relief efforts, such as those listed above.
Q: What is the long-term outlook?
A: The long-term outlook is concerning, as Madagascar was already facing significant food insecurity before the cyclones. Sustained support will be crucial for recovery and resilience.
Did you know? Madagascar is particularly vulnerable to cyclones due to its geographic location and limited infrastructure.
Pro Tip: When donating to disaster relief efforts, research the organization to ensure your contribution will be used effectively.
Stay informed about the ongoing situation in Madagascar and consider supporting relief efforts to help those affected rebuild their lives.