Twin Cyclones Deepen Vulnerability for Hundreds of Thousands in Madagascar

Antananarivo/New York, February 19, 2026 – A new geospatial assessment by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reveals that Cyclones Fytia and Gezani have disproportionately impacted communities in Madagascar already struggling with basic needs, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and hindering recovery efforts. The back-to-back storms caused widespread flooding and destruction to homes, farmland, and infrastructure.

Impact of the Cyclones

Cyclone Fytia made landfall on the west coast between January 31 and February 1, 2026, followed by Cyclone Gezani, which struck near Toamasina on February 10, 2026. According to the UNDP, floodwaters reached areas home to up to 350,000 people. A significant 63 percent of those affected were already lacking reliable access to essential services and adequate living conditions prior to the storms [1].

By combining satellite imagery with socioeconomic data, the analysis identifies areas where flood damage overlaps with pre-existing poverty, helping to prioritize recovery support. “For families who were already living day to day, these floods are a breaking point,” said Dr. Edward A. Christow, UNDP Resident Representative in Madagascar.

Agricultural Losses and Food Security Concerns

Agricultural losses are particularly severe in Madagascar, where nearly eight out of ten households rely on farming for income and food. Satellite data indicates that up to 174,100 hectares of cropland were flooded [2]. In some eastern communes, more than 80 percent of cropland was affected, threatening food supplies and local markets.

“The crops are damaged and yields will be low. We are truly afraid of famine this year. We still have some of last year’s harvest to sell, but once those reserves are depleted, we will be in dire straits,” said Mrs. Lala, a mother of six children in Antetezambaro.

Economic Disruption

The cyclones have too caused significant economic disruption. Volamanana Clarisse, a mother in Antetezambaro, explained, “I produce a living from selling milk function. But without electricity, I can’t run my refrigerator to store the milk. Before the cyclone, I sold up to 150 litres of milk a day. Now, I only sell 20 litres.”

Response and Recovery Efforts

The government of Madagascar, through the National Bureau of Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC), is leading the response in collaboration with UN agencies and humanitarian partners [4]. Aerial overflights and multi-sectoral assessments are being prepared for the most isolated areas, such as Mitsinjo and Soalala districts, which are currently only accessible by air. Food assistance is being provided to displaced individuals in temporary shelters and evacuation sites, and emergency stocks are being prepared for deployment.

At least 22 schools have been damaged, with 8 totally destroyed, affecting the education of 1,100 students [4]. Estimates indicate that 42,000 houses could be flooded and 176 health centers may sustain damage [4].

UNDP is working with national and local authorities to guide recovery planning, combining satellite data with field verification to prioritize assistance and support communities in rebuilding their livelihoods and regaining stability.

Media Contacts

In Madagascar, Marie-lys Mory, Tel: +261 32 23 655 29, marie-lys.mory@undp.org

In New York, Aimee Brown, aimee.brown@undp.org and Eve Sabbagh, eve.sabbagh@undp.org