A hospital in Toamasina, damaged by cyclone Gezani in February 2026. The General Directorate of Meteorology is providing an overview of what the next cyclone season could bring. It is urging the population to remain vigilant. Madagascar could face intense cyclones during the next cyclone season, according to initial meteorological forecasts. An El Niño episode is developing. "During El Niño periods, cyclones are generally less numerous. However, their intensity is often higher in Madagascar. Consequently, even if only one cyclone were to strike us, its power could cause considerable damage," said the Director General of Meteorology, Luc Andréas Randriamarolaza, yesterday, during a workshop to strengthen the early warning system through the Early Warnings for All action plan, at the headquarters of the National Bureau for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC), in Avaratr'Antanimora. Lack of rainfall He emphasized that it is essential to always be prepared and to prepare accordingly. Cyclones would not be the only natural disaster likely to affect Madagascar during the 2026-2027 season. The country could face both drought and flooding. "Lack of rainfall is quite possible this year and requires even more rigorous and effective preparation, particularly in the south of the island. However, based on past experience, we also know that rainfall can fall very intensely over very short periods. In the northern regions, we must therefore still prepare for possible flooding or sudden heavy precipitation," continued Luc Andréas Randriamarolaza. Early warning is at the heart of the meeting bringing together several stakeholders at the BNGRC today and tomorrow. These two days of consultation are devoted to analyzing and structuring this early warning system for all. "The ultimate goal is to reduce as much as possible the negative impact of these natural disasters on the lives of our citizens. With this in mind, we are currently conducting awareness, education and experience-sharing activities directly in the field. We are already inventorying and verifying the equipment needed to face this 2026-2027 cyclone season," announced the Director General of the BNGRC, General Gabriel Ramanantsoa. Miangaly Ralitera