Toamasina, Madagascar – At least 20 people have been killed after Cyclone Gezani tore into Madagascar on Tuesday, unleashing violent winds and torrential rain that devastated the coastal city of Toamasina.
Storm Impact
The cyclone made landfall with winds of up to 250 kilometres per hour, ripping roofs off homes, uprooting trees, and leaving entire neighbourhoods submerged. Authorities confirmed that several victims died when their houses collapsed.
- 15 people remain missing
- Dozens injured, with many requiring urgent medical care
- Drone footage shows widespread flooding and debris blocking roads across the city of 400,000
Aid groups described the aftermath as “total chaos,” reporting that up to 90 percent of roofs were damaged in some areas.
Most Intense Storm in Decades
Forecasters said Toamasina bore the brunt of the cyclone, which may be one of the strongest storms to strike the region in decades. The destruction has left thousands displaced and raised fears of further flooding as the storm moves inland.
Government Response
Madagascar’s new leader has arrived in Toamasina to assess the damage and coordinate relief efforts. Emergency teams are working to clear debris, restore access to affected areas, and provide shelter to displaced families.
Conclusion
Cyclone Gezani’s devastation underscores Madagascar’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, which have become increasingly frequent and severe. With rescue operations ongoing and the storm still moving inland, authorities warn that the death toll could rise as more areas are impacted.
