Norwegian nurse Terese Sørlie is currently in Madagascar witnessing the immediate aftermath of Cyclone Gezani, which made landfall on Tuesday night with devastating winds reaching 250 kilometers per hour. Situated in the port city of Toamasina, also known as Tamatave, Sørlie highlights the extensive destruction, including power outages, damaged hospitals, and limited access to fuel and banking services. The cyclone has left the populace grappling with dire humanitarian needs, echoing conditions similar to a war zone.

Having arrived on the island on January 3rd for what was supposed to be a vacation, Sørlie has quickly transitioned from tourist to humanitarian responder, compelled to assist those impacted by the cyclone. Despite Madagascar being one of the world's poorest countries, she emphasizes the pressing survival needs of the local population, which includes securing sufficient water and cash. Her experience of over 20 years as a healthcare assistant and nearly 30 years working on aid projects in Africa fuels her resolve to provide support during this crisis.

The cyclone's implications extend beyond immediate destruction, posing long-term challenges for recovery in a country already facing economic hardships. With major infrastructure compromised, the struggle for basic essentials like water and cash access exacerbates the plight of the citizens, highlighting the urgent need for international humanitarian assistance. Sørlie's efforts, such as purchasing 50-kilogram bags of essential supplies, exemplify grassroots responses necessary in the face of overwhelming natural disasters.