Mauritius and La Reunion Prepare for Cyclone Garance Threat

Cyclone Garance poses a serious threat to Mauritius and La Reunion, leading to airport closures and extensive safety measures. Classified as a level three storm, it is expected to bring heavy winds, rain, and flooding. Both islands are on high alert as they prepare for the impending impact of the cyclone.

On Thursday, the Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius and La Reunion prepared for the impending threat of Cyclone Garance, an intense tropical storm categorized as a direct threat. The Mauritius government had already announced the closure of its main airport the previous day, with La Reunion also scheduling a similar closure. The cyclone, classified as a level three on the alert scale, is expected to produce wind gusts of up to 70 kilometers per hour and poses a significant risk to both islands.

According to the Mauritius Meteorological Service, Cyclone Garance was identified 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius and has intensified into a formidable tropical storm. The government warned of potential flooding and noted that the cyclone was moving dangerously close to the islands. It was reported that the cyclone had altered its course, now heading east but curving southward between Mauritius and La Reunion.

The peak strength of Cyclone Garance is anticipated to occur later in the day or night, as indicated by the French weather service Meteo-France. Celine Jauffray from Meteo-France expressed concern, stating, “The expected scenario is a direct impact on Reunion Island.” Wind gusts exceeding 150 kilometers per hour are forecasted for La Reunion’s higher elevations, with heavy rainfall and turbulent seas accompanying the cyclone.

In response to the threat, local authorities in La Reunion declared a red alert, which mandates that residents remain indoors, with only emergency services permitted to operate. Schools had already suspended activities from Wednesday afternoon, and Air Mauritius announced the suspension of all flights until further notice. The islands remain on high alert as they brace for the storm’s impact.

In summary, both Mauritius and La Reunion are facing an imminent threat from Cyclone Garance, classified as a level three cyclone. With significant wind gusts expected and preparations underway, local authorities have imposed strict safety measures, including flight suspensions and school closures. Residents are urged to remain indoors as the cyclone approaches, highlighting the severity of this weather event in the region.

Original Source: www.voanews.com