Marc Lottering and husband relive their experience in Mozambique during Tropical Cyclone Gezani
Marc Lottering and his husband, Anwar Mc Kay after surving tropical cyclone Gezani whilst on holiday in Mozambique.
Image: Facebook
“Grateful to be alive and safe.”
These were the sentiments expressed by comedian Marc Lottering and his partner, author Anwar Mc Kay, after they survived a tropical cyclone during their vacation in Mozambique.
The couple had travelled from Cape Town to Mozambique and found themselves caught in the path of Tropical Cyclone Gezani while visiting Tofo Beach in the Inhambane province.
The cyclone made landfall in eastern Madagascar on February 10, bringing winds of approximately 180 km/h and gusts reaching up to 230 km/h.
As it moved through the Mozambique Channel, it reached Inhambane, where reports indicate that at least four people lost their lives due to the storm's impact.
After the cyclone passed, Lottering and Mc Kay took to their individual Facebook accounts to share videos documenting their experiences.
In one video, Mc Kay is seen enjoying breakfast at a beachside café on the day the cyclone was expected to make landfall.
In the background, strong winds and large waves can be heard as staff hurriedly prepared for the approaching storm.
“This video was recorded just hours before the cyclone hit. I was in complete denial because, in my mind, cyclones happened on CNN in faraway places, to other people. Well, the penny should have dropped that I was indeed in a faraway place! 🙈🙊🙉
"I am grateful to be alive and safe. Tofo is a beautiful seaside village, and the people are incredibly kind and humble,” Mc Kay shared.
In another video, Lottering appeared visibly anxious as the waves crashed against the shore.
“This was on the morning, just a few hours before the cyclone hit. Anwar was still eager to capture moments with his phone. But look at my face, man. I was done with jokes, wondering if that was my last poached egg. 😆 #tofo #inhambane #mozambique🇲🇿,” he remarked.
Fortunately, both Lottering and Mc Kay are safe and have since returned to their home in Cape Town.
Reflecting on their experience, Mc Kay stated, “This was an adventure of a lifetime! Everything about this trip was unpredictable! Mozambique has the most wonderful, humble, and kind people. Tofo is a vibe!! Back home in Cape Town!!!”