Save the Children alerts that over 22,500 children in northern Madagascar face severe risks from Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, which is projected to make landfall, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall. The organization emphasizes the need for humanitarian aid and increased climate funding to assist affected communities. Preparations for impact assessment and aid distribution are already underway.
On January 11, 2025, families in northern Madagascar are preparing for the anticipated landfall of Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, which poses a severe threat due to predicted strong winds, heavy rainfall, and extensive flooding. Save the Children reports that approximately 22,500 children are at risk of displacement and injury as evacuation efforts commence in response to the escalating storm conditions. The cyclone follows a near-miss with Tropical Storm Chido in mid-December, which resulted in significant devastation in nearby Mayotte.
The meteorological department has indicated that northern Madagascar has already endured heavy rain, and further downpours are expected to exacerbate the situation. Save the Children emphasizes the urgent need for increased international funding to assist lower-income nations like Madagascar in tackling the growing challenges posed by climate-related disasters. The organization has expressed particular concern for children vulnerable to the cyclone’s effects, warning that extensive damage to homes, schools, and critical infrastructure is likely to ensue.
In preparation for the cyclone, Save the Children has mobilized resources and pre-positioned essential supplies in the Sava region. The organization remains committed to supporting local communities and facilitating humanitarian aid in the aftermath of the storm. The expected impact of Tropical Storm Dikeledi underscores the ongoing climate crisis, highlighting the necessity for urgent rescue operations and humanitarian intervention in the region.
Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi is set to hit northern Madagascar, exacerbating concerns for local families and children who suffered the effects of previous storms, including Tropical Storm Chido. With over 22,500 children at risk, Save the Children has been actively involved in providing assistance and calls for enhanced international support to address the increasing incidence of extreme weather events linked to climate change. The organization has a history of operation in Madagascar and aims to mitigate impacts on vulnerable populations.
The imminent arrival of Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi poses a significant threat to northern Madagascar, particularly for the 22,500 children in vulnerable conditions. Save the Children is poised to assist affected families and advocates for increased international aid to combat climate change impacts. The cyclone serves as a reminder of the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address the challenges faced by lower-income countries in light of frequent extreme weather events.
Original Source: www.savethechildren.org
