Tropical Cyclone Gezani has caused major disruption to transport infrastructure in eastern Madagascar after striking the port city of Toamasina.

The cyclone made landfall with winds above 195 km/h, leaving severe damage in the country’s principal maritime hub, according to residents.

Authorities reported nine deaths and nearly 1,500 people evacuated from a district surrounding the port.

Meteo Madagascar warned that widespread flooding, flash floods and landslides were highly likely as the cyclone crossed the island from east to west.

These conditions pose risks to road access and inland transport links connected to Toamasina and surrounding regions.

Red alerts were issued for Analanjirofo, Atsinanana, Alaotra Mangoro, Analamanga and Betsiboka, signalling imminent danger across areas that include key routes between the coast and the central highlands.

The weather service stated in a 01:00 update on Wednesday that hazardous conditions were expected throughout the day as Gezani advanced towards higher terrain.

Wind speeds later weakened to around 110 km/h, but authorities continued to monitor the impact on communities and transport corridors.

Damage assessments in Toamasina remained ongoing following the cyclone’s passage.