Cyclone Garance: Mauritius and La Reunion Prepare for Severe Weather

Cyclone Garance, a category 3 storm, poses an imminent threat to Mauritius and La Reunion, triggering high alert statuses and prompting residents to stock up on essentials. The cyclone, with winds up to 70 km/h, has led to airport closures and a forecast of severe weather, including possible flooding. Authorities are urging the population to remain indoors as storm preparations continue.

Cyclone Garance, classified as a category 3 cyclone, poses a significant threat to the Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius and La Reunion, with wind gusts reaching up to 70 kilometers per hour. Authorities have placed both islands on high alert, prompting residents to secure essential supplies in anticipation of the storm. On Wednesday, Mauritius closed its main airport, while La Reunion planned to follow suit on Thursday, indicating the necessary precautionary measures ahead of the cyclone’s arrival.

As Cyclone Garance tracked eastward but curved south, it threatened to pass within 50 kilometers of La Reunion. The Mauritius Meteorological Service has reported that the cyclone is approximately 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius and is categorized as an “intense tropical storm,” signaling possible flooding and severe weather. Weather warnings suggest gusts exceeding 150 kilometers per hour in elevated areas of La Reunion, coupled with heavy rain and tumultuous seas.

The red alert for La Reunion is expected to be activated at 7:00 PM, placing the population under strict instructions to remain indoors and limiting movement to emergency services. Schools had already been closed since Wednesday afternoon as safety measures were heightened in light of impending weather conditions. Residents flooded stores to purchase necessary items, with shoppers forming long lines in preparation for the anticipated lockdown due to the storm.

One shopper, Franck Vitry, expressed concern over his time management for shopping and remarked, “It took me 30 seconds to grab the water, and I have been waiting in line to pay for 10 minutes.” Other residents collected provisions, such as candles, batteries, and canned goods to ensure they would remain secure during the alert period. Fishermen took precautions by securing their vessels on dry land, and farmers prepared their crops for adverse weather conditions.

The last significant red cyclone alert for La Reunion was in January 2024 when Cyclone Belal resulted in four fatalities and extensive damage estimated at around €100 million. As Cyclone Garance approaches, residents are reminded of the potential threats that severe weather conditions can impose on their lives and livelihoods.

With Cyclone Garance approaching, both Mauritius and La Reunion have issued high alert statuses prompting preparations for severe weather. The impending storm has forced the closure of airports and schools while residents stockpile essentials due to anticipated lockdowns. Authorities are vigilant as they monitor the cyclone’s trajectory, with historical context highlighting the dangers of such weather events. Safety measures remain critical as the islands brace for potential impacts.

Original Source: www.france24.com