Mauritius and La Réunion Brace for Cyclone Garance’s Impact

Mauritius and La Réunion are on high alert for Cyclone Garance, classified as a Class 3 cyclone. Mauritius has closed its main airport, and La Réunion is set to follow. The cyclone poses risks of strong winds up to 70 km/h and possible flooding, with emergency measures in place to protect residents.

The Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius and La Réunion are currently on high alert as Cyclone Garance poses a significant threat. Mauritius has suspended operations at its primary airport, while La Réunion is expected to follow suit shortly. Authorities have classified Garance as a Class 3 cyclone, signaling the potential for wind gusts of up to 70 kilometers per hour, alongside severe risks of flooding due to the approaching storm.

According to the Mauritius Meteorological Service, Cyclone Garance was located approximately 310 kilometers northwest of Mauritius and has intensified into an intense tropical storm. Officials have issued warnings stating that the cyclone is dangerously approaching the island, constituting an immediate threat to its residents and infrastructure.

Initially moving eastward, Cyclone Garance has shifted its trajectory southward, bringing it between Mauritius and La Réunion. La Réunion’s government representative confirmed plans to issue a “red alert,” resulting in the closure of the island’s airport. On its expected path, the cyclone is projected to be within 50 kilometers of La Réunion between Thursday evening and Friday morning.

Meteo-France has reported that La Réunion may experience direct impacts from the cyclone, with wind gusts likely exceeding 150 kilometers per hour at higher elevations, combined with heavy rainfall and turbulent seas. A red alert would necessitate residents remaining indoors, allowing only emergency services to operate. Schools had already been closed by the afternoon of the preceding day, Wednesday.

Air Mauritius has announced the indefinite suspension of all flights due to the cyclone’s expected impacts. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are advising residents to prepare for the imminent weather conditions.

In summary, the Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius and La Réunion are preparing for the imminent impact of Cyclone Garance, classified as a Class 3 cyclone. Both islands have enacted emergency measures, including airport closures and public advisories urging residents to stay indoors. Authorities emphasize the cyclone’s potential for severe weather, including high winds and flooding, urging thorough preparations for safety.

Original Source: newscentral.africa