Antananarivo. Powerful Tropical Cyclone Gajani has wreaked havoc in the Indian Ocean island nation of Madagascar. At least 20 people have died so far, while 15 are missing, according to the government’s disaster management agency.

According to reports, the highest number of deaths, 18, were recorded in Toamasina, the country’s second-largest city, while two others died in a neighboring district. The cyclone caused widespread damage with strong winds and rain as it hit the coast late Tuesday night. Local residents described the strong winds as terrifying, saying even sturdy metal doors and windows shook.

At least 33 people were injured in the disaster. More than 2,700 people were evacuated as a precaution. Several communities were affected as the cyclone struck coastal areas and then moved inland.

At its peak, Ghazani’s wind speed was about 185 km/h, with gusts reaching 270 km/h, according to the weather service. The strong winds blew roofs off many homes, uprooted trees, and damaged power lines, leaving many areas in darkness.

This is the second major cyclone to hit Madagascar this year, following Cyclone Phytia, which struck about ten days ago, killing 14 people and displacing thousands.

The weather service said Wednesday morning that Gejani had weakened to a moderate tropical storm and was expected to move northward toward the Mozambique Channel, moving away from the capital, Antananarivo. Authorities had already closed schools and prepared evacuation camps, potentially preventing widespread loss of life.