The death toll from Cyclone Gezani in Madagascar has climbed to 59, with 804 individuals sustaining injuries, as per the latest update from the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC). More than 420,000 people have been impacted in 25 districts across five regions in eastern and central Madagascar. The cyclone has caused damage to over 49,000 houses and destruction of more than 25,000 houses.
Authorities are actively evaluating the extent of the damage and conducting relief operations in the affected regions, with aid efforts already in progress for affected populations. The Malagasy government declared a “state of national disaster” on February 11 in response to the extensive devastation brought about by Cyclone Gezani. The cyclone resulted in severe damage to infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods, in addition to causing significant economic losses.
The tragic loss of life and disruption of communities were highlighted as major factors in the government’s declaration of a “state of national disaster” following Cyclone Gezani. The cyclone has significantly impacted various regions of Madagascar, compounding an already critical situation post-Cyclone Fytia and ongoing heavy rainfall. The United Nations (UN) recently announced an allocation of three million US dollars for emergency aid to Madagascar in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Gezani.
Preliminary reports from the storm-affected regions in eastern and central Madagascar suggest that more than 250,000 individuals have been affected, with close to 7,000 people displaced. Over 65,000 homes have been flooded, damaged, or destroyed, and approximately 600 classrooms have been rendered unusable. The government has solicited international support and is spearheading search-and-rescue, evacuation, shelter, and food assistance operations, including the distribution of around 800 metric tonnes of rice, with assistance from the UN and other partners.
