Cyclone Garance Strikes Reunion Island, Prompting Emergency Response

Cyclone Garance struck Reunion Island, causing severe weather including heavy rain and winds over 200 km/h. Authorities urged residents to stay home while damage occurred, leading to power outages and shelter requirements for 683 individuals. Although the highest cyclone alert was lifted, a red warning remains in effect as recovery efforts continue.

On Friday, Cyclone Garance made landfall on the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, prompting officials to advise residents to remain indoors. The cyclone has caused heavy rainfall and wind gusts exceeding 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph), leading to significant flooding, power outages, and property damage. In response to the severe weather, 683 individuals have sought shelter in emergency facilities, while 54 have been evacuated as a precaution against flooding and landslide threats. Thankfully, there have been no reported fatalities thus far.

Approximately 30% of the island’s population is currently without electricity, and nearly 10% of its 885,000 residents lack access to clean drinking water, according to local authorities. Damaging winds have resulted in ripped roofs, doors, and windows across numerous buildings. To aid those affected, tarpaulins are being dispatched to the hardest-hit regions in the eastern areas of the island.

The Reunion prefecture has announced the lifting of the purple cyclone warning, which is the highest level of alert, allowing rescue operations to commence. However, the island remains under a red warning as forecasts predict ongoing heavy rainfall and strong winds throughout the day. National weather agency Meteo France reported a maximum wind speed of 214 kilometers per hour recorded at the main airport on the island.

Situated approximately 1,500 kilometers southeast of the French territory of Mayotte, Reunion Island has recently witnessed devastating weather events. In December, Cyclone Chido inflicted extensive damage upon Mayotte, resulting in 40 confirmed deaths and 41 individuals reported missing or presumed buried. There is an ongoing concern for additional casualties related to that event.

In summary, Cyclone Garance has significantly impacted Reunion Island, leading to severe weather challenges such as heavy rainfall, powerful winds, and considerable property damage. The local government has activated emergency protocols, advising residents to seek shelter and stay indoors. With ongoing rescue operations and recovery efforts in effect, the community remains resilient amid the challenging circumstances.

Original Source: apnews.com