Cyclone Garance Causes Tragedy in Reunion Island with Three Fatalities

Cyclone Garance struck Reunion Island with devastating winds of up to 234 km/h, resulting in three deaths, extensive power outages, and water supply issues. A maximum alert was issued for residents, and heavy rains are expected to continue. Emergency services are mobilized, with military assistance on standby to aid recovery efforts.

Cyclone Garance has tragically claimed the lives of three individuals in Reunion Island following its severe impact characterized by wind gusts reaching up to 234 km/h (145 mph). As the cyclone made landfall on Friday morning, it left over 180,000 homes without electricity and 170,000 residents without access to running water. Authorities imposed a maximum alert, mandating that the entire population, including emergency services, remain indoors.

Heavy rains were anticipated to persist into Friday evening, prompting warnings from Prime Minister Francois Bayrou about the ongoing threat posed by the cyclone. Prefect Patrice Latron described the conditions as “brutal and violent,” expressing that the current storm was more severe than Cyclone Belal, which resulted in four fatalities on the island in January 2024. Cyclone Garance made its initial landfall in the northern region of the island at 10:00 local time, subsequently moving south and exiting by late afternoon.

In response to the cyclone, local authorities downgraded the storm alert by midday, enabling emergency services to resume operations outside their shelters. The peak winds recorded have not been observed on the island since Cyclone Hollanda in February 1994. Vincent Clain, a 45-year-old resident, remarked, “This is the first time I’ve seen a cyclone this powerful, and also the first time I’ve been afraid.”

In anticipation of emergency needs, approximately 100 troops and firefighters from the French territory of Mayotte and an additional 100 personnel from mainland France have been placed on standby, pending improved conditions. Additionally, a 55-year-old man was reported missing in neighboring Mauritius after swimming in perilous ocean conditions. France’s Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, noted the “rare intensity” of Garance, while Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu affirmed the readiness of armed forces to assist as necessary.

In summary, Cyclone Garance has caused significant devastation in Reunion Island, resulting in three fatalities, widespread power outages, and disrupted water supply. Authorities implemented strict safety measures as the cyclone approached, and recovery efforts are underway, supported by military personnel. This event serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of nature and the importance of preparedness in facing such emergencies.

Original Source: www.bbc.com