Tropical Storm Garance Forces Airport Closure in Mauritius and Safety Alerts

Tropical Storm Garance has prompted the closure of Mauritius’ main airport and a Foreign Office alert for UK nationals. Air Mauritius is facilitating free travel date changes due to the disruption. In addition, La Réunion is preparing for a lockdown as the storm approaches, urging residents to stay inside and conserve resources while emergency services prepare for potential aftermath assessments.

The Republic of Mauritius has announced the closure of its main international airport due to the adverse weather conditions caused by Tropical Storm Garance. High winds and heavy rainfall, which began impacting the area on Wednesday afternoon (February 26), have led officials to advise travelers to remain in contact with airlines for further updates regarding flight statuses. The airport will remain closed until further notice, posing significant disruptions to travel.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued advisory alerts for UK nationals located in Mauritius, urging them to ensure their safety and adhere to guidance provided by local authorities. In light of the airport’s closure, Air Mauritius, the national airline, stated, “We understand that delays can be inconvenient, and we will reschedule our flights as soon as the airport is operational and weather conditions permit.”

Furthermore, Air Mauritius offers passengers the option to change their travel dates without incurring additional charges, valid for any adjustments made until March 31, 2025. In nearby La Réunion, preparations for a total lockdown have been initiated as the cyclone approaches, emphasizing the need for residents to stay indoors and prepare for potential power and water outages. The local administration has advised minimal use of phones, reserving such actions for emergencies to monitor weather updates.

As stated by the prefect, following the storm, crisis management teams will assess the situation before lifting the lockdown and red alert status. This cautious approach aims to prioritize the safety of all residents and visitors in the region during this critical phase of the storm’s impact.

In conclusion, Tropical Storm Garance has compelled the closure of Mauritius’ main international airport and led to heightened security measures, including an alert from the FCDO for UK nationals. Air Mauritius is accommodating affected travelers with flexible options for rescheduling, while the situation remains critical in La Réunion with impending lockdowns. Authorities are closely monitoring developments and prioritize public safety.

Original Source: www.ttgmedia.com