Madagascar hit by two cyclones in two weeks – over 400,000 affected

Madagascar has been struck by two successive cyclonic systems — Cyclone Fytia and Intense Tropical Cyclone Gezani — in late January and early February 2026. Occurring less than two weeks apart, the storms have sharply increased humanitarian needs across the country and affected more than half a million people.

Preliminary reports indicate that more than 400,000 people have been affected nationwide and at least 40 deaths recorded. Coastal districts have experienced widespread flooding and severe wind damage, while critical infrastructure—including roads, bridges, schools, and health facilities—has been damaged or cut off, limiting humanitarian access and delaying the delivery of essential services.

Needs remain acute across all affected regions. Priority areas include emergency shelter, food security, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), health, and protection, with particular concern for women, children, older people, and people with disabilities.

“Women, children, older people, and persons with disabilities are among the most vulnerable during cyclones, particularly in communities already affected by food insecurity and repeated climate shocks,” says Mirana Fanomezantsoa, CARE Madagascar Country Director. “CARE in Madagascar is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with national authorities and humanitarian partners.”

CARE is coordinating with the Government of Madagascar through the National Disaster and Risk Management Office (BNGRC) and other humanitarian actors to support and strengthen the response.

The climate crisis, combined with chronic poverty, worsening food insecurity and reductions in foreign aid, is intensifying humanitarian needs and further destabilising an already fragile context. Madagascar has been particularly affected by global aid cuts.

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