Airport Closure in Mauritius and Lockdown in La Reunion Due to Tropical Storm Garance

Mauritius’ main airport is closed due to Tropical Storm Garance, prompting a Foreign Office alert. Travelers are directed to check with airlines for updates, and Air Mauritius is offering free date changes for existing tickets. La Reunion is under lockdown as safety measures against the cyclone are enforced.

Mauritius has closed its main international airport due to severe winds and heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Garance. This decision has triggered a Foreign Office alert for regions within the Indian Ocean. Authorities are advising travelers to consult with their airlines for the latest updates, as the airport will remain closed until further notice.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has urged British nationals in Mauritius to remain vigilant, take shelter, and adhere to instructions from local authorities. Air Mauritius, the nation’s flag carrier, acknowledged the disruptions and indicated their commitment to rescheduling flights once the airport reopens, as weather conditions allow.

Air Mauritius responded to customer difficulties with the announcement of a free-of-charge date change for tickets booked until March 31, 2025. This measure is intended to facilitate travel adjustments amid the airport’s indefinite closure.

In La Reunion, a neighboring French island, total lockdown measures are being implemented in preparation for the cyclone’s approach. Residents have been instructed to stay indoors and brace for potential power and water outages, deeming phone usage only necessary when absolutely required.

Local authorities have expressed that the lockdown and associated red alert will not be lifted until safety conditions are guaranteed. The prefect stated that following the cyclone’s passage, crisis management services would perform necessary assessments to ensure community safety.

The closure of Mauritius’ main international airport due to Tropical Storm Garance has incited a Foreign Office alert while prompting Air Mauritius to offer free flight rescheduling to those affected. Meanwhile, La Reunion is enforcing a total lockdown as the storm approaches, urging residents to remain indoors until further notice. Safety protocols will be reevaluated post-cyclone to ensure public security.

Original Source: www.ttgmedia.com