Tropical Storm Garance Forces Airport Closure and Safety Alerts in Mauritius
Tropical Storm Garance has led to the closure of Mauritius’ main airport, prompting the Foreign Office to issue a safety alert for UK travelers. Air Mauritius is accommodating affected passengers with fee-free flight rescheduling. Meanwhile, La Reunion is entering a total lockdown as the cyclone approaches, with authorities advising residents to stay indoors and prepare for potential utility outages.
Mauritius has temporarily closed its main international airport due to the severe weather conditions associated with Tropical Storm Garance, which includes high winds and heavy rain. The closure occurred on Wednesday afternoon, February 26, and operations will remain suspended until further notice. Travelers are advised to communicate directly with their respective airlines for updates regarding their flights.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has urged British nationals currently in Mauritius to remain indoors and adhere to the guidelines issued by local authorities. Air Mauritius, the nation’s flagship airline, has acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the closure and indicated their commitment to rescheduling flights as soon as weather conditions are favorable. They are also offering complimentary changes to travel dates until March 31, 2025, for passengers wishing to alter their itineraries.
In addition to these developments, the nearby French island of La Reunion is preparing for a complete lockdown as the cyclone nears its shores. Local officials have instructed residents to remain indoors and brace for possible disruptions to power and water services. They have advised limited use of mobile phones and recommended that individuals stay informed about weather updates during the storm.
The prefect of La Reunion has commented, stating that crisis management services will commence reconnaissance efforts once the cyclone has passed. The lockdown will remain in effect, along with the associated red alert, until authorities can ensure that safety conditions have been restored.
In summary, Tropical Storm Garance has necessitated the closure of Mauritius’ main international airport, impacting travelers significantly. The FCDO has recommended that UK citizens follow local safety measures while Air Mauritius offers flexibility in flight changes. Meanwhile, La Reunion is preparing for a lockdown as the storm approaches, emphasizing community safety and preparedness. These developments underscore the importance of monitoring weather-related advisories in affected regions.
Original Source: www.ttgmedia.com
