The slow-moving cyclone initially appeared to be skirting the island nation but changed course, slamming into the north on Wednesday. Strong winds and heavy rains caused widespread damage, washing away homes and uprooting trees.

Authorities report that 18 people have lost their lives in the storm, with some drowning and others perishing from collapsing houses or falling trees. The National Bureau of Risk and Disaster Management (BNRGC) released figures on Friday indicating over 20,000 people displaced and more than 5,000 households affected.

Cyclone Gamane has since weakened to a tropical storm and is expected to move off the island by Friday afternoon. The cyclone season in the southwestern Indian Ocean typically runs from November to April, bringing around a dozen storms annually. (ILKHA)