Cyclone Garance Causes Devastation in Reunion, Claiming Three Lives
Cyclone Garance has impacted Reunion, leading to three fatalities and extensive damage. With wind gusts reaching 234 km/h, the storm left over 180,000 homes without power. Officials imposed a strict indoor confinement order as heavy rains are expected to continue, raising concerns about subsequent conditions.
Cyclone Garance has caused significant devastation in Reunion, claiming three lives and damaging extensive infrastructure. The cyclone, characterized by maximum gusts reaching 234 km/h (145 mph), struck the island on Friday morning, leading to power outages affecting over 180,000 homes and disrupting water supply to 170,000 residents. The authorities instituted a strict indoor confinement order for the population, including emergency services, due to the heightened risk posed by the storm.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated to persist into Friday evening, and Prime Minister Francois Bayrou warned that the threat from the cyclone remains substantial. Prefect Patrice Latron noted that the storm conditions were “brutal and violent,” surpassing those of Cyclone Belal, which resulted in four fatalities earlier this year. Cyclone Garance made landfall in the north of the island before moving south and exiting by late afternoon, as reported by Meteo France.
In response to the emergency, local authorities downgraded the alert level at midday to permit emergency services to leave their shelters. The cyclone’s wind speeds have not been witnessed on the island since Cyclone Hollanda in February 1994. Resident Vincent Clain described the cyclone’s power, stating, “This is the first time I’ve seen a cyclone this powerful, and also the first time I’ve been afraid.”
Approximately 100 troops and firefighters are on standby in Mayotte, nearly 1,500 km (930 miles) away, and an additional contingent from mainland France is ready for deployment once conditions improve. In a related incident, a 55-year-old man is reported missing in Mauritius after being swept away while swimming in turbulent seas. France’s Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, highlighted the cyclone’s “rare intensity,” with Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu confirming readiness for military assistance.
In summary, Cyclone Garance has resulted in three fatalities and widespread damage in Reunion, with significant power and water service disruptions. As the island grapples with the aftermath of the cyclone, government officials continue to monitor conditions and are prepared to provide necessary support. The severity of this storm has raised concerns, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance and preparedness against such natural disasters.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
