Cyclone Gezani kills four in Mozambique as Madagascar assesses damage
World • 12h ago
**Cyclone Gezani Brings Devastation to Mozambique, Leaves Trail of Destruction in Madagascar**
As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, a powerful cyclone has brought death and destruction to Mozambique and Madagascar. Cyclone Gezani, which made landfall in Mozambique's southern coastal province of Inhambane, has claimed the lives of at least four people, leaving many more without power or access to basic necessities.
The aftermath of the cyclone has been particularly dire in Madagascar, where at least 41 people lost their lives. Over 16,000 people have been displaced, and thousands more have been injured. The city of Toamasina, which is home to over 400,000 people, has been largely devastated, with about 75% of its infrastructure destroyed. The scale of the destruction is indeed overwhelming, leaving residents struggling to access even the most basic services.
The impact of Cyclone Gezani is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of African nations to climate-related disasters. Mozambique, which is still reeling from the effects of recent flooding, is no stranger to weather-related crises. The country's efforts to recover from previous disasters have been hampered by the ever-present threat of climate change. The damage caused by Cyclone Gezani is estimated to be around $142 million, further straining the country's resources.
As the world watches, it's clear that climate change is having a profound impact on our planet. The frequency and severity of natural disasters are on the rise, and it's imperative that we take action to mitigate their effects. For Mozambique and Madagascar, the road to recovery will be long and arduous, but it's a crucial step in building resilience against the impacts of climate change.
In the words of Tania Goosens, the World Food Programme's Madagascar director, "the city is running on roughly 5% of electricity, and there is no water." The devastation caused by Cyclone Gezani is a stark reminder of the importance of climate action.