SAWS issues advisory on tropical storm Gezani: no direct risk to SA, but rough seas expected

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says 'Gezani', a moderate tropical storm currently located over the south-west Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar, poses no direct threat to South Africa.

The forecaster said the storm is currently moving in a westerly direction under favourable environmental conditions, and is expected to make landfall over Madagascar on Tuesday afternoon.

"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.

It added that once Gezani makes landfall, the system is expected to weaken while tracking south-westward across Madagascar.

The forecaster explained that Gezani is expected to enter the Mozambique Channel late on Wednesday, where it could intensify if environmental conditions are favourable.

"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," SAWS stated.

Vessels in moving through the south-west parts of the Indian Ocean, Mozambique Channel, and offshore marine operations are advised to exercise caution as this weather is expected to bring rough seas, strong winds, and hazardous marine conditions in the vicinity of the storm.

The name Gezani, contributed by South Africa, marks the seventh named system of the 2025/26 south-west Indian Ocean cyclone season.

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