Cyclone Garance Threatens Mauritius and La Reunion, Prompting Urgent Preparations

Cyclone Garance, categorized as a category 3 storm, poses a direct threat to Mauritius and La Reunion, prompting high alerts. Mauritius has closed its main airport, while La Reunion will follow suit. Residents are rushing to purchase supplies as the storm approaches, with predictions of severe weather conditions and flooding expected.

Cyclone Garance, a category 3 storm with wind gusts reaching 70 kilometers per hour, is currently affecting the Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius and La Reunion. Authorities have issued high alerts for both islands, with Mauritius closing its main airport and La Reunion expected to follow suit soon. The cyclone, classified as an “intense tropical storm”, poses a significant risk of flooding as it approaches closely from the northwest.

As of Thursday morning, Cyclone Garance was located approximately 310 kilometers from Mauritius, prompting weather officials to declare a red alert. The cyclone has shifted its path to pass between both islands, with projections indicating it may come within 50 kilometers of La Reunion. Meteorological agencies also warned of possible severe winds and heavy rainfall throughout the region, particularly affecting the highest elevations on La Reunion.

In anticipation of the cyclone’s impact, residents in La Reunion have begun stockpiling essential supplies. With the red alert anticipated to take effect at 7:00 PM, citizens are urged to remain indoors and limit movement to emergency services only. Many stores have seen long queues, with individuals seeking bottled water, batteries, and food supplies.

Local fishermen prepared for the storm by securing their boats on land, while farmers took measures to protect their crops from expected gale-force winds. One farmer voiced the need to safeguard his greenhouses over his cucumber vines, emphasizing the importance of their agricultural tools. Recent history reminds the islands of the severe damages caused by Cyclone Belal in January 2024, which resulted in fatalities and extensive financial losses.

As Cyclone Garance threatens Mauritius and La Reunion, emergency protocols are fully activated. Authorities have closed airports, issued red alerts, and encouraged residents to prepare for potential flooding and strong winds. With community members bracing for the storm, essential supplies are becoming scarce. Past cyclones illustrate the need for vigilance and preparedness in the face of such natural disasters.

Original Source: www.france24.com