Cyclone Garance Set to Impact Reunion with Hurricane-Force Winds

Cyclone Garance is on course to hit Reunion, marking the first major cyclone strike in 36 years. Meteo France has issued a red alert, predicting heavy rains and wind gusts potentially reaching 150 mph. The cyclone’s impact is expected late Thursday into Friday, with heavy flooding likely. Historical context highlights the island’s rarity in facing direct hurricane hits, last struck by Cyclone Firinga in 1989.

Cyclone Garance is making its way towards the French island of Reunion, expected to be the first hurricane-force cyclone to hit the island in 36 years. Situated in the southern Indian Ocean, this island is approximately the size of Rhode Island and home to about 900,000 residents. Currently, Meteo France has issued a red warning due to high waves and strong winds already hitting the area.

As of Thursday evening local time, Meteo France classified Cyclone Garance as an “intense cyclone” with wind speeds akin to a Category 3 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale. “Garance will impact Reunion with heavy rain later Thursday night through Friday, with several inches of rain likely. Localized amounts could be as high as 2 feet,” explained Jason Nicholls, AccuWeather Lead International Expert.

Experts predict wind gusts could reach up to 150 mph, posing the risk of considerable damage. Cyclone-related coastal flooding and high seas are expected around the island until the storm subsides. A red cyclone alert will commence at 7:00 p.m. on February 27, 2025, when Cyclone Garance is anticipated to arrive, as reported by the prefecture.

Historical data indicates Reunion has experienced many tropical storms, but direct hits from hurricane-force cyclones are uncommon. The most notable cyclones include those in 1806 and 1807, which changed the island’s agricultural focus from coffee to sugar cane. The island has not faced a direct hit from a hurricane since Cyclone Firinga in 1989, with the prior occurrence being Cyclone Beryl in 1961.

In summary, Cyclone Garance is poised to make a significant impact on Reunion, marking the first hurricane-force cyclone to affect the island in more than three decades. With severe weather warnings in place and projections of heavy rainfall and powerful winds, residents are bracing for potential flooding and damage. The event underscores the island’s vulnerable history with cyclones, emphasizing the importance of preparedness among the population.

Original Source: www.accuweather.com