Mauritius Closes Airport as Tropical Storm ‘Garance’ Approaches

Mauritius will close its sole airport due to a Class III cyclone warning as tropical storm ‘Garance’ intensifies. The storm, expected to bring winds of up to 165 km/h, poses a direct threat to the island. Banks and non-essential services are closed today, potentially extending depending on the storm’s development. Significant rainfall shortages have also led to water use restrictions.

Mauritius is set to close its only airport starting Wednesday evening in response to a raised cyclone warning. The warning, categorized as Class III, marks the first instance of such a warning this summer season, as reported by the country’s meteorological services. In light of this development, banks, the stock exchange, and non-essential services will remain closed due to the public holiday on Wednesday, with potential extensions depending on the storm’s status.

Tropical storm ‘Garance’ poses a direct threat to Mauritius as it approaches from the northwestern coast of the Indian Ocean, with predictions indicating that it may escalate to tropical-cyclone intensity. Winds could reach speeds of 165 kilometers (102 miles) per hour, as indicated by the meteorological services. As they cautioned, “Garance constitutes a direct threat to the island.”

Historically, the first two months of the year witness heavy rainfall in Mauritius; however, this January has recorded significantly low rainfall—only 30% of the expected long-term average—marking it as the second driest in 25 years. Diminishing water levels in the key reservoirs have necessitated government interventions, which include restrictions on non-essential water usage to manage resources effectively.

In summary, Mauritius is preparing for severe weather conditions as tropical storm ‘Garance’ approaches, prompting the closure of the main airport. The cyclone warning has been elevated to Class III, increasing concerns for the island. With the lack of rainfall this January compounding existing water shortages, authorities are taking precautionary measures to safeguard public safety and manage resources.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com