Cyclone Belna Strikes Madagascar

Cyclone Belna has struck Madagascar.

So far nine people have died and three others are missing.

Heavy rains and strong winds impacted Boeny ahead of the storm.

Belna's rainbands began affecting the Diana region on 7 December. Low-lying areas of Antsiranana were flooded, inundating entire neighbourhoods.

Most of Soalala, where Belna made landfall, was flooded. Homes and government buildings were damaged in the city.

Strong winds damaged the roofs of 80% of residences and government offices. Damage to homes displaced 1,400 people, forcing them to seek refuge in mosques, offices, and schools.

The city's hospital was inundated with seawater following the collapse of a protective dyke.