Cyclone Garance Threatens Mauritius and La Reunion, Prompting High Alerts
Cyclone Garance has prompted Mauritius and La Reunion to issue high alerts as it nears the islands, expected to bring damaging winds and flooding. Authorities have closed airports and schools in anticipation of the cyclone’s approach, with residents racing to stock up on essential goods. Emergency services will be the only ones permitted to move about as the islands prepare for impact.
Cyclone Garance, classified as a category 3 cyclone with gusts reaching 70 kilometers per hour, is currently threatening Mauritius and La Reunion, prompting both islands to issue high alerts. The cyclone poses a significant risk to these popular tourist destinations, with authorities taking immediate precautionary measures, including the closure of airports and schools.
Mauritius closed its main airport on Wednesday, while La Reunion’s airport is set to follow on Thursday. The Mauritius Meteorological Service has reported that the cyclone was located 310 kilometers northwest of the island and was identified as an “intense tropical storm,” generating worries of flooding as it approaches the area.
The cyclone is expected to pass within 50 kilometers of La Reunion between Thursday evening and Friday morning, leading the local government to declare a “red alert” and implement lockdown measures. Weather warnings indicate potential wind gusts exceeding 150 kilometers per hour on La Reunion’s highest points, along with heavy rainfall and turbulent seas.
In preparation for the storm, residents are stockpiling essential supplies, resulting in long lines at stores. One shopper mentioned the urgency of acquiring necessities: “I thought I had plenty of time to do my shopping, but I was wrong,” highlighting the frantic atmosphere as people gather items like bottled water, candles, batteries, and food.
Local fishermen have secured their boats, and farmers are taking measures to protect their crops. A farmer voiced the difficult decision to sacrifice his cucumber plants to preserve greenhouse structures, stating, “They’re our main working tools.” Recently, La Reunion experienced a similar red alert during Cyclone Belal, which resulted in fatalities and significant property damage.
Cyclone Garance represents a severe weather threat to Mauritius and La Reunion, prompting immediate lockdowns and emergency preparations. The islands are taking extensive precautions to safeguard residents and infrastructure as they brace for potential high winds and flooding. These proactive measures reflect lessons learned from past storms, demonstrating the importance of timely and organized responses to natural disasters.
Original Source: www.france24.com