ANTANANARIVO, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- The death toll from the heavy rains that have hit Madagascar since Feb. 14 rose to 11, according to the latest report from the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC) released on Thursday.

Five regions of the Indian Ocean island country have been severely affected, including the national capital of Antananarivo and its surrounding areas. Seven of the victims were in and around Antananarivo, while the other four were in the southeastern part of the country.

Heavy rains and subsequent floods have affected more than 16,000 people, or 4,260 households, mainly in the central highlands and southeast of the country. As a result, more than 9,000 people had to be relocated to temporary accommodation sites.

The BNGRC also expressed regret over the flooding of 3,000 houses, 13 of which were destroyed.

Classes have been suspended in the region around Antananarivo since Monday and will continue throughout the week.

Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant in case of further bad weather over the next few days. Enditem

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