Tropical Cyclone Giovanna

On February 14, intense tropical cyclone “Giovanna” made landfall in the East coast of Madagascar. High winds and heavy rains caused damage in the regions of Brickaville and Vatomandry. Giovanna left  houses totally destroyed, trees and power poles down, rice fields flooded, schools and health centers under water, and people trapped under the trees. The latest assessment of the National Office of Disaster Management, reported 16 dead, 65 injured, 10,856 people affected, 3,380 houses totally destroyed and 1,480 houses damaged. The number of victims is increasing every day.

The Red Cross responded well before the cyclone.  When it was confirmed that the cyclone would hit the country, 1,416 Red Cross volunteers were involved in an early warning campaign. They travelled to each neighborhood with their megaphones and also went door to door. They also worked with local radio stations to broadcast alert messages.

Currently, close to 600 volunteers have been deployed to assist with emergency relief. The Malagasy Red Cross joined the search and rescue operation, while also helping move people to camps and providing first aid.

The Canadian Red Cross is actively monitoring the situation and is ready to assist with emergency supplies and personnel if needed.

Posted:  February 22, 2012