Cyclone kills 20 in Madagascar as 2nd-largest city '75% destroyed'

A powerful cyclone, identified as Cyclone Gezani, struck Madagascar, resulting in at least 20 confirmed deaths, according to the island nation's disaster authority. The cyclone hit on Tuesday, causing extensive damage, particularly in Toamasina, Madagascar's second-largest city, where officials reported that two-thirds of the city is in ruins. The cyclone brought violent winds that toppled houses and led to significant flooding across the region. The disaster management officials noted that the impact of Cyclone Gezani has rendered many roads inaccessible due to uprooted trees and downed power poles. Reports indicate that approximately ninety percent of roofs in the affected areas have been ripped off, exacerbating the destruction and complicating rescue efforts. Building collapses have been cited as a contributing factor to the fatalities, with many of the confirmed deaths resulting from these incidents. In addition to the loss of life, the cyclone has caused widespread disruption to infrastructure and essential services. The extent of the damage has raised concerns about the immediate needs of the affected population, including shelter, food, and medical assistance. The situation remains critical as recovery efforts are underway, and local authorities are assessing the full scale of the devastation caused by Cyclone Gezani.