Cyclone Garance Causes Deaths and Extensive Damage on La Reunion Island
Cyclone Garance has struck La Reunion, causing at least three fatalities and leaving over 180,000 households without power. The storm brought winds up to 155 mph, damaging homes and disrupting access to water and electricity. While the worst of the cyclone has passed, local authorities continue to urge caution among residents.
Cyclone Garance has led to the deaths of at least three people on La Reunion island, a French overseas territory in the Indian Ocean. The cyclone, which made landfall on Friday with wind speeds reaching 155 mph, has caused widespread devastation, including roofs being blown off and significant power outages. As reported by authorities, over 180,000 households are without electricity, and nearly 10 percent lack access to drinking water.
The cyclone impacted the northern region of the island east of Madagascar before moving southwest hours later. According to Meteo France, although the worst of the storm has passed, a mandatory order for residents to remain indoors remains in place due to lingering heavy rains. “The cyclone is still a threat for the island; I call on all to follow local authorities’ instructions,” stated French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou on social media.
As the situation unfolds, residents have expressed their fears regarding the cyclone’s power. Vincent Clain, a resident from Sainte-Marie, noted, “This is the first time I have seen a cyclone this powerful, and also the first time I have been afraid.” Meanwhile, Aline Etheve of Sainte-Suzanne shared her concern about potential damage to her home, stating, “I must admit I am a little scared.”
In response to the crisis, the nearby island of Mauritius suspended operations at its main airport, while La Reunion’s international airport is expected to reopen late on Saturday. Rescue workers have begun assessing the damage as weather conditions are anticipated to improve in the coming days.
Cyclone Garance has inflicted significant damage on La Reunion island, resulting in fatalities and widespread power outages. Authorities are working to assist affected residents, while the community grapples with the aftermath of the destructive storm. With weather conditions projected to improve, efforts to restore normalcy continue amid ongoing concerns for safety in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
