At least 16 people have died in a tropical storm on the African island of Madagascar, authorities say. 19 others are missing, the national civil protection authority announced on Friday.
More than 55,000 people and thousands of homes are affected by the heavy rains and flooding that have ravaged the Indian Ocean country for more than a week.
Tropical storm “Cheneso” reached the island off the southeastern coast of Africa on January 19 and has since wreaked havoc, especially in the north of the country. In some areas the water is still knee deep; Many people had fled their homes, a teacher in the northern city of Mahajanga, Brigitte Hamizaty, told the German news agency. Dozens of roads in the region were inaccessible and bridges collapsed, authorities said.
“Cheneso” was withdrawn Friday morning, according to Madagascar’s meteorological authority. However, heavy rain showers are still expected on the west and south-east coasts of the island state with about 28 million inhabitants.
(yam/sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
