The death toll from Cyclone Gezani has climbed to 59 as the storm continues to hit Madagascar and Mozambique, forcing authorities to declare a national emergency.
Officials in both countries confirmed new fatalities after days of heavy rain, strong winds and flooding that swept through coastal and inland districts. Emergency services say search and rescue teams are still reaching remote areas cut off by damaged roads and collapsed bridges.
In Madagascar, disaster management authorities reported widespread destruction to homes, schools and health centres. Thousands of families have been displaced, with temporary shelters set up in public buildings. Power outages and water supply disruptions have affected several regions as repair crews struggle to restore services.
Mozambican authorities also confirmed casualties and extensive infrastructure damage, particularly in low-lying provinces prone to flooding. Rivers have burst their banks, submerging farmland and destroying crops at the height of the agricultural season.
Both governments declared a national emergency this afternoon, unlocking additional funds and allowing faster mobilisation of security forces and humanitarian agencies. Relief supplies, including food, clean water and medical kits, are being distributed, though officials say access remains difficult in some districts.
Meteorological agencies warn that heavy rainfall may continue in parts of southern Africa even as the cyclone weakens. Forecasters say saturated ground raises the risk of further flooding and landslides.
International aid organisations have begun coordinating with local authorities to assess urgent needs. Regional bodies are also monitoring the situation as cross-border river systems swell.
Local officials say updated casualty and damage figures are expected once assessment teams complete surveys in the hardest-hit communities.