Tropical Storm Gezani update: SAWS monitors system with no direct threat to South Africa
SAWS says Tropical Storm Gezani could strengthen near Madagascar and later enter the Mozambique Channel, but there is currently no threat to South Africa.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) is closely monitoring a moderate tropical storm named Gezani, currently located over the south-west Indian Ocean, 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,” SAWS said.
Gezani is currently moving westward under favourable environmental conditions, with forecast guidance indicating that landfall over eastern Madagascar is likely this afternoon, February 10.
MEDIA RELEASE: The SAWS Monitoring Moderate Tropical Storm Gezani in the South-West Indian Ocean
Click on the link for more information: https://t.co/YAwoTZj8eM pic.twitter.com/6x4Y6fThGZ
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) February 9, 2026
“As the system approaches Madagascar, environmental conditions may support further intensification, and Gezani could strengthen into a tropical cyclone, or possibly an intense tropical cyclone, before landfall,” SAWS said.
Following landfall, the system is expected to weaken while tracking south-westward across Madagascar. Gezani is then forecast to enter the Mozambique Channel late on Wednesday, February 11, where environmental conditions may once again become favourable for re-intensification.
ALSO READ: Tropical storm Gezani’s impact on South Africa still unclear
“Some forecast scenarios suggest a possible approach toward the Mozambican coast later in the week; however, uncertainty remains regarding the exact track and intensity during this phase.”
#Gezani is heading to #Madagascar while rotating its convective banding to form a more pronounced CDO & eventually an eye. It’s expected to be near or even reach C3 status (SSHWS) before hitting E 🇲🇬.#tropicswx #MDGwx pic.twitter.com/hDufiwkE1B
— Vortix (@VortixWx) February 9, 2026
SAWS has advised 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.
“At present, Gezani does not pose any threat to South Africa. 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,” SAWS said.
For regular updates, please visit https://www.weathersa.co.za or follow SAWS official media channels.
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