Fatalities and Destruction as Cyclone Garance Strikes Reunion Island
Cyclone Garance struck Reunion island, causing at least three deaths along with widespread destruction and evacuations. The storm generated winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour, leading to significant flooding and power outages. Emergency shelters accommodated numerous residents as local authorities continue to manage the crisis amidst further weather warnings.
On Friday, Tropical Cyclone Garance struck the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, causing severe damage and resulting in the loss of at least three lives, as reported by French police. The cyclone brought fierce winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph) along with torrential rains, prompting authorities to issue orders for residents to remain indoors. The storm led to significant flooding, power outages, and destruction of property across the island.
Authorities reported that 847 individuals sought refuge in emergency shelters, while 54 people required evacuation due to the heightened risk of flooding or landslides. As a consequence of the storm, approximately 182,000 residents experienced power outages, and 171,000 lost access to clean drinking water. Damage to buildings was extensive, with roofs, doors, and windows being torn off by the strong winds.
Rescue operations commenced following the lifting of the purple cyclone warning, the highest alert level, on Friday morning. However, the island remained under a red warning as heavy rains and winds were expected to persist throughout the day. Notably, winds reaching 214 kilometers per hour (133 mph) were recorded at the island’s main airport, significantly impacting local infrastructure.
Reunion island, located about 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) southeast of Mayotte, is still recovering from the effects of previous cyclones. In December, Cyclone Chido left widespread devastation and confirmed fatalities of 40, with 41 individuals missing or presumed buried under debris. The severe weather events in the region highlight the vulnerabilities faced by these communities in the face of natural disasters.
In conclusion, Cyclone Garance has wrought devastating effects on the island of Reunion, resulting in fatalities, extensive property damage, and power disruptions. The local authorities continue to respond to the crisis, prioritizing the safety of residents and ongoing rescue efforts, while the region grapples with the challenges posed by extreme weather events, including previous cyclones.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
