Mananjary, on the southeastern coast, is one of Madagascar’s most at-risk areas for cyclones and flooding. Its exposed location makes it highly vulnerable to storms like Batsirai (2022) and Freddy (2023), which destroyed thousands of homes and left many families without shelter. Most people depend on farming for their income, but severe weather events frequently wipe out crops, leading to food shortages and economic struggles. Over 96% of houses are made from fragile materials, making them extremely unsafe during storms. Schools are also hit hard, with nearly 39,000 students affected by cyclone damage and thousands forced to drop out. Flooding is a major issue, affecting up to 67% of communities during cyclonic events. Access to clean water and healthcare is limited, and many health facilities shut down during severe storms. Even with some preparedness measures in place, Mananjary remains extremely vulnerable due to frequent natural disasters and weak infrastructure.

Fianarantsoa, located in Madagascar’s Haute Matsiatra region, is highly susceptible to the devastating impacts of cyclones and flooding. Cyclones such as Batsirai and Emnati (2022) and Freddy (2023) have caused significant damage in southeastern Madagascar, including Fianarantsoa. Children in Fianarantsoa are particularly vulnerable during these disasters. In January 2015, Cyclone Chedza affected 174,000 people, including 20,000 displaced individuals, with 5,510 children under five unable to return home two months later, facing survival challenges in makeshift shelters exposed to violence and disease.  The region’s susceptibility to river and urban flooding further exacerbates these challenges. Fianarantsoa I has been identified with high cyclone hazard levels and medium risks for river and urban floods. These conditions necessitate robust disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies to protect vulnerable populations, especially children, from the recurring threats posed by cyclones and flooding. 

Morombe, on Madagascar’s western coast, faces serious challenges due to extreme weather and poor infrastructure. With a dry, semi-arid climate, the region often struggles with drought, making it hard for families who rely on farming and fishing to earn a living. Cyclones, like Freddy in 2023, have caused major damage—destroying homes, displacing families, and disrupting schools. Around 80% of houses are built with weak materials, making them highly vulnerable to storms. Every year, flooding affects up to 65% of households, putting even more pressure on already struggling communities. Education is also at risk, with nearly 19,200 students affected by cyclone damage, and many dropping out. Poor access to clean water and sanitation increases health risks, especially for young children. While some disaster preparedness measures exist, Morombe remains highly vulnerable due to its fragile homes, limited resources, and climate-related challenges.

Mitsinjo, located in Madagascar’s Boeny region, faces significant environmental challenges, particularly during cyclone seasons. The region is highly susceptible to the devastating impacts of cyclones and flooding, with frequent events like Cyclone Belna (2019) and the severe flooding in January 2020, which affected over 47,000 people, including fatalities in Mitsinjo district. Mitsinjo is prone to flooding from the Kikony and Akamony rivers, and its geography makes it vulnerable to both cyclone and river flood hazards, classified as high risk for the next decade. Children in Mitsinjo are especially vulnerable to these natural disasters, as they frequently disrupt education, causing many children to miss schooling. Additionally, the region’s limited access to healthcare and sanitation facilities poses serious health risks, including malnutrition and the spread of waterborne diseases. These recurrent disasters highlight the urgent need for robust early warning systems to protect lives and livelihoods in Mitsinjo.

Ankarafantsika, located in northwestern Madagascar’s Boeny region, is characterized by fragmented forests and a dry climate, making it highly susceptible to deforestation, land degradation, cyclones, and flooding. The remaining forests are increasingly fragmented, and cyclones whenever they occur have led to the destruction of a substantial percentage of trees and reduced tree crown volume in Ankarafantsika National Park. The region’s vulnerability to river flooding further exacerbates the risks, leading to potential displacement and loss of livelihoods for local communities. These environmental challenges contribute to socio-economic hardships, impacting access to resources and livelihoods. Children in Ankarafantsika are especially vulnerable to the effects of these natural disasters, facing disruptions in education, health issues, and limited access to protective services, which further heightens their vulnerability.

Toliara, located on Madagascar’s southwestern coast, is prone to natural disasters such as cyclones, flooding and droughts, with devastating effects on local communities, especially children. Cyclone Haruna (2013) caused widespread destruction, with winds over 200 km/h, and Cyclone Freddy (2023) brought severe flooding, displacing families and damaging homes. Cyclone Cheneso (2023), with winds reaching 148 km/h, and Cyclone Alvaro (2024), which affected over 26,000 people, intensified these challenges. Children are particularly at risk, with school buildings often destroyed—affecting thousands of students—and many forced to miss education. Malnutrition, disease outbreaks, and disruptions to healthcare services also exacerbate vulnerabilities for children, making them more susceptible to long-term impacts. Over 80% of homes in Toliara use fragile materials, leaving families, especially children, exposed to the full force of these frequent disasters.