Cyclone Garance Strikes Reunion Island, Resulting in Tragedy and Devastation
Cyclone Garance struck Reunion Island, resulting in three deaths and substantial damage, including power outages for over 180,000 homes and water supply loss for 170,000 residents. The cyclone made landfall with winds up to 234 km/h and led to heavy rain continuing into the evening. Local authorities mobilized emergency services as the situation developed.
Cyclone Garance has wreaked havoc on Reunion Island, resulting in three fatalities as it approached the French Indian Ocean territory with intense winds reaching speeds of 234 km/h (145 mph). After making landfall on Friday morning, the cyclone left over 180,000 households without electricity and 170,000 without water supply. In response to the crisis, the island’s entire population, including emergency personnel, was ordered to remain indoors due to the maximum alert level in effect.
Local authorities anticipate that heavy rainfall will persist into the evening, with Prime Minister Francois Bayrou cautioning that the cyclone still poses a significant risk. According to Prefect Patrice Latron, the conditions were described as “brutal and violent” and were considered more severe than those experienced during Cyclone Belal, which resulted in four deaths in January 2024. Cyclone Garance made landfall in the northern region of the island at 10:00 local time, progressing southward before leaving the area by late afternoon, as reported by Meteo France.
The alert level was subsequently downgraded by midday to facilitate the deployment of emergency services. The wind speeds recorded were the highest since Cyclone Hollanda struck in February 1994. Vincent Clain, a local resident, expressed his fear, stating, “This is the first time I’ve seen a cyclone this powerful, and also the first time I’ve been afraid.”
As conditions are expected to improve, approximately 100 military personnel and firefighters from Mayotte, which lies around 1,500 km away, are prepared for dispatch, along with an additional 100 from mainland France. It was reported that a 55-year-old man has gone missing in nearby Mauritius after entering the sea under challenging conditions. France’s Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, remarked on the storm’s rarity, while Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu asserted that the armed forces are prepared to assist as necessary.
In summary, Cyclone Garance has resulted in significant devastation on Reunion Island, with three confirmed fatalities and numerous individuals affected by power and water outages. The cyclone’s ferocity has prompted emergency warnings and responses, illustrating the severity of natural disasters in the region. The island’s officials are mobilizing resources to address the aftermath and ensure community safety. Reflecting on the gravity of the situation, it is clear that vigilance and preparedness are crucial in responding to such catastrophic events.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
