The South African Weather Service (SAWS) is on alert as Moderate Tropical Storm Gezani churns through the south-west Indian Ocean, near Madagascar.
Indian Ocean (10 February 2026) – The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has confirmed that it is closely monitoring a moderate tropical storm named Gezani, currently located over the south-west Indian Ocean to the east of Madagascar.
The name Gezani, contributed by South Africa, marks the seventh named system of the 2025/26 south-west Indian Ocean cyclone season. At present, there is no indication of any direct threat to South Africa.
According to SAWS, Gezani is currently moving westward under favourable environmental conditions, and forecast guidance indicates that landfall over eastern Madagascar is likely on Tuesday afternoon, 10 February 2026.
As the system approaches Madagascar, environmental conditions may support further intensification, and forecasters warn that Gezani could upgrade to a full tropical cyclone just before hitting the coast.
After crossing Madagascar, the system is projected to enter the Mozambique Channel by late Wednesday. While it will likely weaken over land, the warm waters of the channel could provide favourable conditions for re-intensification.
Some forecast scenarios suggest a possible approach toward the Mozambique coast later in the week; however, uncertainty remains regarding the exact track and intensity during this phase.
The SAWS advises vessels operating in or transiting through the south-west Indian Ocean and the Mozambique Channel, as well as offshore marine operations, to exercise caution, as rough seas, strong winds, and hazardous marine conditions are expected in the vicinity of the storm.
The SAWS will continue to monitor the system closely and will issue updates as new information becomes available. The public and relevant authorities are urged to follow official weather warnings and advisories from reliable sources.
For regular updates, please visit https://www.weathersa.co.za or follow SAWS official media channels.
by 