Madagascar's National Office for Risk and Disaster Management has reported significant devastation in Toamasina after Cyclone Gezani made landfall, resulting in at least 38 confirmed deaths, with six additional people still unaccounted for. The cyclone hit on Tuesday with winds reaching up to 250 kilometers per hour, impacting homes and infrastructure throughout the city. As assessments of the damage continue, the casualty count and reports of injuries have risen, indicating the cyclone's severe impact on the local population.

In addition to the loss of life, more than 12,000 individuals have been displaced due to the cyclone's destructive force, necessitating urgent humanitarian assistance. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, Madagascar's new leader, has called for international solidarity to aid recovery efforts, highlighting the extent of the disaster with claims that up to 75 percent of Toamasina and its surroundings have been affected. The government's request for international help underscores the need for substantial resources to support the rebuilding of affected communities.

As Mozambique prepares for the looming arrival of the cyclone's remnants, the situation in Madagascar raises concerns about the broader regional impact. The cyclone's devastating effects could prompt international organizations to mobilize, providing critical support to Madagascar's government as it navigates the recovery process and implements measures to assist the displaced population while managing ongoing risks from adverse weather conditions in the region.