Cyclone Garance Devastates La Reunion Island, Causing Fatalities and Widespread Power Outages

Cyclone Garance has caused three deaths and extensive damage in La Reunion, with over 180,000 households losing power. The cyclone brought winds of up to 155 mph, leading to significant infrastructure issues and prompting a temporary stay-at-home order for residents. As conditions are expected to improve, recovery efforts are being initiated alongside public safety warnings from authorities.

At least three fatalities have been reported as Cyclone Garance impacted La Reunion, a French overseas territory in the Indian Ocean. The cyclone made landfall Friday, unleashing wind speeds reaching up to 155 mph, leading to severe destruction including roofs blown off and extensive power outages. Over 180,000 households are affected, with significant challenges accessing electricity and clean water.

The cyclone exited the island’s southwestern region after several hours, according to Meteo France, which has downgraded the storm alert. While the initial threat level was purple, indicating extreme danger, it was later reduced to red, allowing rescue teams to commence damage assessment, although a stay-at-home order for residents is still in effect due to ongoing heavy rainfall risks. Weather predictions suggest imminent improvement by Saturday.

French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou urged residents to heed local authorities to mitigate risks, especially as the cyclone continues to pose threats. Significant disruptions have also impacted travel, with La Reunion’s international airport previously closed and scheduled to reopen late Saturday after flights were halted.

Residents described their experiences as terrifying, a sentiment echoed by Vincent Clain, who noted, “This is the first time I’ve seen a cyclone this powerful, and also the first time I’ve been afraid.” Another resident, Aline Etheve, expressed her concerns about potential structural damage to her home following the storm’s severe impact on her property.

Cyclone Garance resulted in critical safety concerns and infrastructure damage in La Reunion, leading to fatalities and widespread power loss affecting a significant portion of the population. Authorities and residents are facing ongoing challenges as they navigate the aftermath while assessment and recovery efforts begin. Continued vigilance as weather conditions stabilize remains essential for ensuring public safety.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com