Cyclone Garance Strikes Reunion Island, Causing Deaths and Widespread Damage

Cyclone Garance devastated Reunion Island, causing three fatalities, widespread damage, and significant power outages. Residents were evacuated, and emergency shelters were utilized as the island faced heavy rains and winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour. Public safety measures remained in effect despite the lifting of the highest warning level.

Cyclone Garance struck the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, resulting in at least three fatalities, as reported by French police. The storm brought extremely high winds and intense rainfall, leading to significant flooding, power outages, and damage to structures. Authorities issued directives for residents to remain indoors due to safety concerns.

The cyclone produced winds exceeding 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph), with gusts reaching up to 214 kilometers per hour (133 mph) recorded at Reunion’s main airport. Emergency services reported that 847 individuals sought refuge in shelters while 54 residents were evacuated due to the imminent risk of flooding and landslides. Additionally, approximately 182,000 people experienced power outages, and about 171,000 were without access to clean drinking water.

The local government confirmed that roofs, doors, and windows were ripped from numerous buildings across the island. To assist those affected, tarpaulins have been dispatched to the regions hardest hit by the cyclone. The authorities had lifted the most severe purple cyclone warning, the highest level, but maintained a red warning, urging individuals to remain indoors due to ongoing severe weather conditions.

Reunion Island, located approximately 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) southeast of the French territory of Mayotte, is still recovering from the devastating effects of Cyclone Chido, which led to 40 confirmed deaths and 41 individuals missing or presumed buried. The impact of Cyclone Garance has added to the ongoing challenges facing the region as it grapples with the aftermath of extreme weather events.

In summary, Cyclone Garance has resulted in tragic fatalities and extensive damage on Reunion Island, prompting evacuations and significant infrastructure challenges. Despite the lifting of some warnings, residents are urged to take precautions as strong winds and rains persist. The region continues to face repercussions from past storms, highlighting the increasing challenges of extreme weather in these territories.

Original Source: www.voanews.com