Cyclone Gezani

Overview

On February 10, 2026, Intense Tropical Cyclone Gezani made landfall near Toamasina (Tamatave) on Madagascar's east coast with sustained winds of 220 km/h and gusts exceeding 250 km/h, making it one of the most intense cyclones to hit the region in the satellite era. The storm killed at least 59 people — 32 in Toamasina Province alone — injured more than 800, and left 15 missing. Over 478,000 people were affected and more than 20,800 displaced. The cyclone destroyed 18,797 houses and damaged 51,760 more, while 761 schools and 30 health facilities sustained damage. Economic losses were estimated at US$2 billion. A US$67.8 million Flash Appeal was launched on February 24 to assist 486,000 people. The Malagasy Red Cross Society activated its early action protocol before landfall, deploying volunteers and community response teams. UNICEF, CARE International, World Central Kitchen, and other humanitarian partners are providing food, shelter, water, sanitation, health services, and child protection across affected regions. The government is leading the response through its National Bureau for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC).