Cyclone Gezani poses no threat to Zimbabwe at this stage

The tropical cyclone Gezani poses no threat to Zimbabwe at this stage.

The cyclone, according to AFP, has already claimed more than 35 lives and caused devastation in Madagascar's second-largest city. AFP reported that the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management (BNRGC) on Thursday said it had recorded 35 deaths, while six people remained missing and at least 374 were injured. More than 8,800 people were displaced, it said.

Tropical Cyclone Gezani, which has causing extensive damage, is expected to re-enter the Mozambique Channel this evening, according to the Meteorological Services Department (MSD).

In its latest weather update, the MSD said the system is likely to regain strength once it moves back over open waters later this week.

"After gradually weakening as it crosses Madagascar, Tropical Cyclone Gezani is expected to re-enter the Mozambique Channel on Wednesday evening; likely as a tropical depression or moderate tropical storm. Further intensification is then forecast," the department said.

The forecaster added that the system could strengthen to full tropical cyclone status by around Friday as it follows a path gradually curving southwest.

"Landfall on the Mozambican coast between Friday evening and Saturday is possible but remains uncertain," the MSD said.

Authorities are expected to continue monitoring the system closely as it develops, with communities in Mozambique and neighbouring countries urged to stay alert for further updates.