Cyclone Garance: Mauritius and La Reunion on High Alert as Storm Approaches
Mauritius and La Reunion are under high alert as Cyclone Garance approaches, classified as a Category 3 storm. Airports are closing, and residents are stocking up on supplies as flooding is anticipated. Authorities have declared a red alert for La Reunion and expect severe weather impacts soon, reminiscent of a previous cyclone that caused fatal and economic devastation.
On February 27, 2025, Mauritius and La Reunion are on high alert as Cyclone Garance approaches, posing a significant threat to these tourist destinations. Authorities in Mauritius closed the main airport on Wednesday, while La Reunion is expected to follow suit on Thursday. Cyclone Garance has been classified as a Category 3 cyclone with wind gusts reaching 70 kilometers per hour and is situated 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius, classified as an “intense tropical storm” by the Mauritius Meteorological Service.
The cyclonic system is dangerously approaching the islands, leading to expectations of flooding. Initial forecasts indicated that the cyclone would curve south, passing dangerously close between Mauritius and La Reunion. A representative from La Reunion reported that a red alert will be declared, and the airport will be closed as a precautionary measure.
As Cyclone Garance nears, it could come within 50 kilometers of La Reunion between Thursday evening and Friday morning, prompting Meteo-France to caution residents regarding potential severe impacts. Heavy winds potentially exceeding 150 kilometers per hour are anticipated at the island’s highest points, alongside heavy rainfall and rough seas. Despite heavy cloud cover, significant rainfall has yet to occur.
A red alert is scheduled to take effect at 7:00 PM, ordering residents indoors with only emergency services permitted to operate. Schools closed Wednesday afternoon in preparation for the storm. Residents have been actively stocking essentials, with long lines forming at stores.
Local resident Franck Vitry remarked, “I thought I had plenty of time to do my shopping, but I was wrong,” highlighting the urgency felt by many residents. Meanwhile, families have purchased items to keep children entertained during the impending lockdown, including baking supplies. Seafood fishermen secured their boats while farmers took steps to protect their crops in preparation for the storm’s arrival.
The last recorded red cyclone alert occurred in January 2024 due to Cyclone Belal, which resulted in four fatalities and caused severe economic damage totaling approximately 100 million euros. Authorities remain vigilant as Cyclone Garance progresses.
In summary, both Mauritius and La Reunion are under high alert as Cyclone Garance, classified as a Category 3 cyclone, approaches the islands. Authorities have initiated safety measures including airport closures and mandatory indoor restrictions for residents. Many inhabitants are currently gathering supplies in anticipation of severe weather and potential flooding. Historical context provided by the previous cyclone’s impact underscores the gravity of the current situation.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
