Tropical Cyclone Garance Affects Reunion Island: Residents Advised to Stay Indoors

Tropical Cyclone Garance hit Reunion Island, causing strong winds over 200 km/h and heavy rain, leading to power outages and flooding. Authorities have evacuated vulnerable residents and activated emergency shelters. As the cyclone’s threat persists, locals have been warned to stay indoors, while prior cyclonic devastation in nearby regions adds to concerns.

On Friday, Tropical Cyclone Garance struck the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion, bringing intense winds over 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph) and heavy rain, resulting in significant flooding, power outages, and structural damage. Authorities advised residents to remain indoors as emergency shelters were activated for 683 individuals and 54 others were evacuated from flood-prone areas. Fortunately, there have been no fatalities reported despite the cyclone’s impact.

Approximately 30% of homes lost electricity, and almost 10% of the island’s population of 885,000 were without access to clean drinking water. The cyclone caused severe damage, including the removal of roofs, doors, and windows from various buildings. To support those affected, tarpaulins were dispatched to the worst-hit locations in the east.

Though the highest level cyclone warning (purple) was lifted in the morning, the island remained under a red warning due to continuing heavy rains and strong winds. Consequently, local residents were still requested to stay indoors. The National weather service, Meteo France, reported wind speeds reaching 214 kilometers per hour at the island’s main airport, marking the seriousness of the situation.

Reunion is situated approximately 1,500 kilometers southeast of Mayotte, another French territory recently impacted by Cyclone Chido, which led to devastating effects including 40 confirmed deaths and many individuals missing or thought to be buried under debris. This recent cyclone has raised concerns about severe weather events affecting the region, underscoring the need for preparedness.

Tropical Cyclone Garance has caused significant disruption on the island of Reunion, with residents facing flooding and power outages. Emergency services are responding, evacuating vulnerable individuals and providing shelter. The impact of this cyclone is a stark reminder of the region’s susceptibility to severe weather, highlighting the importance of effective disaster response plans.

Original Source: apnews.com