Mauritius and La Réunion Prepare for Cyclone Garance’s Impact
Mauritius and La Réunion are on high alert as Cyclone Garance approaches, prompting airport closures and warnings of severe weather conditions. The cyclone is categorized as a class 3 storm with estimated gusts reaching 70 kilometers per hour. Authorities are urging residents to remain indoors under a red alert as the islands prepare for potential flooding and significant impacts from the storm.
The islands of Mauritius and La Réunion are on high alert as Cyclone Garance approaches, designated as a direct threat to these popular tourist destinations. The Mauritius government shut down its main airport on Wednesday, with La Réunion following suit on Thursday. As a class 3 cyclone, it is expected to produce gusts of up to 70 kilometers per hour, raising concerns about potential flooding.
Cyclone Garance, now classified as an intense tropical storm, is reported to be located 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius, intensifying fears of its approach. Officials from the Mauritius Meteorological Service emphasized that the cyclone poses a direct threat with significant flooding likely. The storm has shifted its trajectory southward, drawing closer to the vicinity of both islands.
In light of the impending storm, La Réunion’s government is set to issue a red alert, resulting in the closure of the island’s airport on Thursday. Projections indicate that Garance may pass within 50 kilometers of La Réunion between Thursday evening and Friday morning, raising alarms for local residents. Meteo-France has warned of the possibility of winds exceeding 150 kph at higher elevations, coupled with heavy rainfall and turbulent seas.
Under the red alert conditions, residents of La Réunion will be required to remain indoors, allowing only emergency personnel to travel throughout the island. By Wednesday afternoon, local schools had already closed in preparation for the cyclone. Additionally, Air Mauritius has announced a halt to all flights “until further notice.”
In conclusion, the islands of Mauritius and La Réunion are bracing for the anticipated impact of Cyclone Garance, classified as a class 3 cyclone. Authorities are taking precautionary measures, including airport closures and issuing red alerts, in response to the severe weather conditions expected. Residents are advised to stay indoors as officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
Original Source: newscentral.africa