On Sunday, May 4 2003, a climatic disruption in the Indian Ocean
(about 900 km north east off Madagascars’ coast) developed into a
cyclone Manou. On Thursday afternoon , May 8, the cyclone hit the
central east coast of Madagascar between Brickaville and Vatomandry
. It swept over the central east regions of the country: Brickaville,
Vatomandry, Mahanoro, Tanambao-Manampotsy, exiting Madagascar between
Nosy-Varika and Mananjary on Saturday evening, May 10.
Heavy rains, associated with winds averaging 105 km/hour and gusts
of up to 200 km/hour caused massive damage to crops (rice and corn)
as well as infrastructure. The most affected area is the city of Vatomandry,
350 km from the capital Antanarivo. 23 persons are reported dead and
22,000 affected. In the city of Vatomandry, with a population of some
115,000 people, it is estimated that 85% of the buildings have been
destroyed. Electricity and water supply have been cut off. The extensive
damage to the infrastructure makes access to the area very difficult.
ACT member, Church of Jesus Christ (FJKM) reports that they
have sent a team to the affected area to assess the situation.
The FJKM has sent an initial estimated request for the following relief
items:
- Food
- Chorine for treatment of water
- Blankets
- Basic kits for shelter
The ACT CO intends to respond to the most immediate needs through
the Rapid Response Fund. An appeal will be forthcoming. The ACT CO
requests funding members to indicate possible support to the proposed
relief and activities.
