The recent storm Fytia brought devastating effects to Madagascar, resulting in twelve deaths and nearly 85,000 people affected, particularly in Antananarivo, the capital. With the storm triggering significant flooding, the city is once again under threat as alerts for rising waters around the three rivers that surround it have been issued, indicating a high risk of flooding. This persistent flooding poses a serious concern for the residents and local authorities, raising urgent questions about effective flood management solutions.

Antananarivo has been plagued by floods primarily due to the rising waters of its three encircling rivers and inadequate drainage systems that struggle to manage rainwater. The recurring nature of these floods urges reconsideration of current preventive measures and infrastructure in place. The inability to effectively divert rainfall and rise in river levels exacerbates the impact of extreme weather conditions, which have become more frequent and severe with climate change.

As local government and residents search for solutions to mitigate flooding risks, discussions center around improved drainage infrastructure, responsible urban planning, and enhanced emergency response systems. Addressing the root causes of these floods is essential not only for protecting lives but also for ensuring the future resilience of Antananarivo against natural disasters. Solutions must encompass both immediate relief measures and long-term strategies to adapt to changing climatic conditions, as flooding scenarios seem to repeat annually, threatening the safety and livelihood of thousands.