Cyclone toll rises to 44

2008-02-25 20:20

Antananarivo - The toll from Cyclone Ivan has risen to 44 dead and 145 000 homeless in Madagascar, the government said on Monday.

Eastern parts of the Indian Ocean island remained cut off by flood waters, more than a week after the cyclone hit carrying winds of up to 230 kph and torrential rains.

According to a government statement, the worst affected is Fenerive Este district, where out of a population of 281 000, more than 80 000 have lost their homes and up to 70% of buildings have been destroyed.

- AP