Madagascar Reels from Cyclone Gezani: Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Madagascar is grappling with a major humanitarian emergency in the wake of Cyclone Gezani, which struck the port city of Toamasina on February 10, 2026. The cyclone has left a trail of destruction, displacing thousands and exacerbating existing vulnerabilities in the island nation. At least 62 people have died and over 800 have been injured, with 13 still missing as of March 3, 2026.

Devastation in Toamasina

Toamasina, Madagascar’s second-largest city with a population of nearly 400,000, bore the brunt of the storm. Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, who assumed power in October 2025, described the situation as a “catastrophe,” estimating that approximately 75% of the city was destroyed [1]. Winds reached speeds of up to 250 km/h, ripping roofs from homes and uprooting trees. The city’s infrastructure, including water and electricity services and roads, has been severely damaged, hindering rescue and relief efforts.

Rija Randrianarisoa, regional official for Action Against Hunger, reported that 90% of the houses in Toamasina suffered damage, either partial or complete destruction. Roads are impassable due to fallen trees and debris [1].

Humanitarian Needs Surge

The United Nations reports that 35,000 people have been displaced and 382,000 are in urgent require of humanitarian assistance [4]. Over 25,000 homes and more than 750 school classrooms have been destroyed. Beyond the physical damage, the cyclone has deeply destabilized the lives of families, leaving them without homes, essential goods, and livelihoods [4].

Action Against Hunger, which has been operating in Madagascar since 2012, is on the ground providing assistance. Rija Randrianarisoa, emergency response manager for Action Against Hunger in Toamasina, highlighted the interconnected crises facing the country – economic hardship, food insecurity, and climate change – which reduce the population’s ability to recover [1] and [4]. The organization is distributing kitchen and hygiene kits, tarpaulins, repair materials, and providing water purification and financial support to help people rebuild their lives [4].

A Pattern of Extreme Weather

Cyclone Gezani is the latest in a series of extreme weather events to impact Madagascar. Earlier in February 2026, Cyclone Fytia caused at least seven deaths and displaced over 20,000 people [4]. Experts attribute the increasing frequency and intensity of tropical storms in the Indian Ocean to climate change. Structural vulnerabilities, such as precarious housing in flood-prone areas, also contribute to the devastation [4].

Political Context and Recovery Challenges

The cyclone struck Madagascar during a period of political instability. In October 2025, President Andry Rajoleina was deposed by the armed forces following protests against corruption and economic hardship, with Colonel Michael Randrianirina assuming the role of transitional president [4]. This fragile context complicates recovery efforts, as many people express fatigue and fear about regaining lasting stability.

Reconstruction efforts must focus not only on rebuilding infrastructure but also on strengthening the resilience of communities at risk. Addressing waterborne and respiratory illnesses, particularly among children, is also a critical priority.