Toamasina, Madagascar – Cyclone Gezani battered Madagascar’s second-largest city, leaving at least 35 people dead and widespread destruction in its wake.

The storm struck on Tuesday, tearing through the port city with winds reaching 250 km/h (155 mph). Disaster authorities reported “total chaos,” with homes collapsing and neighborhoods plunged into darkness as power lines snapped. Uprooted trees and ripped-off roofs added to the devastation.

Environment Minister Max Fontaine Andonirina said approximately 250,000 people are affected or displaced. “Disruptions to food-supply chains, to fuel transport, to medical access, because most of the major roads are cut,” he explained.

Residents described terrifying conditions as the cyclone lashed their homes. Denise, a local, said, “We are trying to do our best… It’s dangerous and I don’t know if there will be enough people to help us, even though the authorities are trying.”

The National Office for Risk and Disaster Management confirmed many deaths occurred when houses collapsed. Authorities have evacuated dozens of injured people and hundreds of residents from districts around Toamasina.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, Madagascar’s military leader, said, “The current situation exceeds Madagascar’s capabilities alone.” The damage is extensive, with nearly 75% of the city destroyed, and recovery is expected to take many years.

Cyclone Gezani follows Tropical Cyclone Fytia, which struck just ten days earlier, killing 14 and displacing over 31,000 people. As the storm moves toward the Mozambican Channel, authorities warn of possible heavy rain and wind in inland areas.

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