Cyclone Garance Threatens Mauritius and La Réunion with Significant Impacts
Mauritius and La Réunion are under high alert due to Cyclone Garance, classified as a category 3 cyclone. Mauritius has closed its main airport, while La Réunion is set to do the same. The cyclone is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain, prompting the issuance of a red alert in La Réunion. Air Mauritius has suspended all flights as a precaution.
The islands of Mauritius and La Réunion in the Indian Ocean are on high alert as they face the imminent threat of Cyclone Garance, now classified as a category 3 cyclone. Authorities warn that the cyclone is dangerously approaching the islands, which could lead to flooding and strong winds reaching up to 70 kilometers per hour. To ensure safety, Mauritius has closed its main airport, while La Réunion is preparing for similar measures.
As of Thursday, Cyclone Garance is reported to be 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius and is breaching the second-highest alert level. The cyclone’s trajectory shifted southward, leading it to potentially pass between Mauritius and La Réunion. La Réunion officials have indicated that they will issue a “red alert” status, prompting airport closures and requiring indoor confinement for residents.
Meteo-France has cautioned La Réunion residents that they may experience direct impacts, with wind gusts potentially exceeding 150 kilometers per hour at higher altitudes, coupled with heavy rainfall and turbulent sea conditions. The issuance of a red alert will restrict movement on the island to emergency services only, and local schools have preemptively closed as a precautionary measure.
Moreover, Air Mauritius has suspended all flights until further notice due to the cyclone’s threatening path. Cyclone Garance’s projected route indicates it could come within 50 kilometers of La Réunion between Thursday evening and Friday morning, posing a serious threat to both islands.
Both Mauritius and La Réunion are taking necessary precautions in anticipation of Cyclone Garance, which has intensified and poses a significant threat. With airport closures and a red alert status in place, residents are urged to stay indoors to ensure their safety. The situation remains dynamic, and updates from meteorological services are crucial for ongoing assessments.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
