Powerful cyclone hits southeast Africa

Cyclone Freddy struck Madagascar, Mozambique and Malawi. It might be the world's longest lasting cyclone.

Freddy was active from 6th February until 15th March. It grew over the Indian Ocean. The cyclone damaged southeast Africa twice with strong winds and heavy rain.

It's caused a lot of destruction and flooded many places. Many people are injured and have lost their homes. 800 people have already died and this number is expected to increase.

Richard Chimwendo Banda is calling for international support.

Richard Chimwendo Banda: "What we are seeing here is a crisis. So far, we are talking of about 122 people that we have confirmed that they have lost their lives. But quite a number of them are missing and this demands that all of use come in and support. People have been displaced, thousands and thousands in all the 10 districts."

This school in Blantyre provides shelter for people. Due to the poor conditions and no electricity, it's difficult for people to receive aid. The Malawi government is requesting help from the international community.

Before cyclone Freddy arrived, Malawi was experiencing an outbreak of cholera. Many people were already ill. The floods could create more problems by spreading the disease.

Freddy's status as the longest ever cyclone may take time to confirm.

But, as a single storm, Freddy was more powerful than a whole Atlantic hurricane season.

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