Severe Impact of Cyclone Garance on Reunion Island

Tropical Cyclone Garance has struck Reunion, causing winds over 200 km/h and severe flooding. Authorities report significant infrastructure damage, with residents advised to stay indoors. Approximately 683 people are in emergency shelters, and many face power and drinking water shortages as conditions remain hazardous.

The French Indian Ocean island of Reunion is currently facing severe weather conditions as Tropical Cyclone Garance has made landfall. The cyclone has introduced strong winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph), accompanied by heavy rainfall, resulting in flooding and significant structural damage across the island. Authorities have called for residents to remain indoors due to the danger posed by the cyclone.

According to the Reunion prefecture, approximately 683 individuals have sought refuge in emergency shelters, while 54 residents have been evacuated due to imminent risks from flooding and landslides. Local reports indicate that nearly 30% of homes are experiencing power outages, and about 10% of the island’s population of 885,000 lacks access to drinking water as services remain disrupted. Meanwhile, strong winds have prompted the loss of roofs and windows in various buildings, necessitating the deployment of tarpaulins to provide temporary shelter in the hardest-hit areas of the island.

While the purple cyclone warning, the highest alert level, has been lifted, residents are still under a red warning, advising them to remain indoors as adverse weather conditions are forecasted to persist throughout the day. The national meteorological service, Meteo France, has recorded winds at the island’s main airport reaching up to 214 kilometers per hour. Additionally, the island’s geographical proximity to Mayotte has raised concerns following the recent devastation caused by Cyclone Chido, which resulted in 40 confirmed deaths and many missing. This context underscores the vulnerability of the area to severe weather events.

Tropical Cyclone Garance has caused significant disruption on the island of Reunion, prompting emergency measures including evacuations and the establishment of shelters. The cyclone’s impact has led to power outages, water shortages, and extensive damage to infrastructure. While authorities have downgraded the cyclone warning, they continue to advise residents to exercise caution and remain indoors as adverse conditions persist. The situation highlights the region’s susceptibility to tropical cyclones, with recent events in neighboring islands underscoring ongoing risks.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com