In Madagascar, there are two main seasons, the rainy season from November to March and the dry season from April to October.

The rainy season is usually dominated by hot sun until the afternoon followed by thunderstorms but there are often cyclones (the same as hurricanes in the UK). The cyclones are usually caused by hot moist air rising from the Mozambique channel or the Indian Ocean. Because they draw their strength from the sea, they are very dangerous for coastal towns, especially in the North and East. By the time they reach us, the wind speed has lessened, but the rain can go on for days on end and turn the dirt roads here to mud.

Cyclones have been increasing in number and intensity recently and normal rains have been starting later, seemingly as a result of global warming. The farmers in Madagascar toiling in their rice paddies have little control over CO2 emissions but next time you are tempted to go for a drive, think of them and go for a stroll instead.

The Diocese of Canterbury and the four Dioceses of Madagascar
are linked together through prayer and sharing.

Link Officer: The Revd. Colin G Preece, The College, Church Yard, Ashford, Kent, TN23 1QG